Africa--A Glorious Historical Heritage

Author: [USA] Brown, edited by Shi Songning
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2004-01-01
Features: The volumes of "Lost Civilizations" showcase the trajectories of the origins and early transformations of civilizations, long forgotten by later generations. Reading them is like adults revisiting old photographs of their childhood—each scene evokes a faint sense of nostalgia. This series can be enjoyed as an art album, while also serving as a reference for travelers to the world, helping them understand the must-see historical sites and scenic spots. The overall design of "Lost Civilizations" is commendable, covering various ancient civilizations across the world, including both the Old and New Continents. This book is a popular read, yet its content retains a certain level of professionalism, especially when translated into Chinese, which is no easy task. Copying the numerous illustrations within the book also presents challenges—truly worthy of praise and gratitude.
As the second-largest continent, Africa is a land filled with extremes. Its northern and southern ends are the Kalahari Desert and the Sahara Desert, respectively. In the middle lies the lush tropical rainforest of the Congo Basin, the coastal regions of the Gulf of Guinea, towering snow-capped volcanoes, vast tropical savannas, and the East African Rift Valley. Despite this, Africa remains the cradle of humankind. Fossils unearthed there indicate that over a million years ago, a primate capable of using tools—early humans who had just begun to walk upright and would eventually evolve into modern humans—already existed on the fertile highlands of eastern Africa. Africa is not only the birthplace of humanity but also, regardless of how harsh its natural conditions may be, a land that has nurtured vibrant and thriving human cultures.