The story of archaeology

Author: John Romer
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-03-01
Features: A richly illustrated comprehensive history of world archaeology, a book that is accessible to both professionals and general readers. Trace the origins of humanity, understand the changes of time, elaborate on the wondrous past, and showcase incredible treasures! With John Romer's distinctive perspectives and clear explanations, complemented by exquisite photographs and engravings of artifacts from different places, archaeology comes to life off the pages and leaps directly into our imagination. This book is a treasure trove of human history and culture, compiling both fascinating archaeological discoveries from around the world and the great academic achievements of world-class archaeologists. Before the birth of archaeology, Westerners' understanding of ancient history barely went beyond the Bible and the works of ancient Greeks and Romans. Just 250 years ago, Europeans, including Isaac Newton and the Pope, believed that human history was only about four thousand years old. Most people believed that history began when God created Adam and Eve and placed them in the Garden of Eden. Archaeology changed everything. It not only showed us the treasures, tombs, and cities of peoples previously unimaginable but also revealed our ancestors with a history of five million years, changing our understanding of who we are and where we come from, and outlining our relationship with all other life on this planet. In "The Story of Archaeology," John Romer traces the history of archaeology from the beginnings of Pompeii in the 18th century to the present day. He describes the scientific advancements made by key figures, telling an extraordinary story of pioneers, scientists, adventurers, and dreamers. Through the adventures and discoveries of these archaeologists, Romer explores several of the most challenging questions that archaeology has faced since its inception: What is the origin of humanity? Are the stories in the Bible true? Did world civilization originate from a single beginning? He also examines how certain governments over the centuries have used archaeology to try to validate their lineages and deliberately highlight their own perspectives on history.