History of Central Asian Civilization -- Volume 1

Author: A.H. Dani (Pakistan), V.M. Masson (Russia), edited by Rui Chuanming, translated by
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-01-01
Features: The multi-volume History of Civilizations of Central Asia is the first attempt to comprehensively describe this significant topic. The publication of this series of historical works fully aligns with the of UNESCO. An international expert group has collaborated for many years, conducting foundational research to introduce the civilization of this vast region at the heart of Eurasia to a broader audience. The six-volume History of Civilizations of Central Asia will reveal the rise and fall of various cultures in the Central Asian region from the beginning of civilization to the present day. Only a few place names in this region, such as Samarkand, Bukhara, or Khiva, are familiar to the public. Now, renowned experts have lifted the veil through this book, revealing the richer and more diverse aspects of Central Asian civilization. On a broader scale, the ancient and medieval history of the world was shaped by the migrations of peoples from the heartland of Eurasia, extending from the western Black Sea to the eastern borders of China. Volume traces the human history of this vast region from the Paleolithic era to around 700 BCE, when the great Achaemenid Empire laid the foundation for its establishment. The earliest history of humanity is confirmed by the discovery of Paleolithic tools, with some background related to the Paleolithic; today, excavations from Turkmenistan and Tajikistan to the Indus Valley fully demonstrate the stage of food production. Most importantly, the great civilizations of the Bronze Age show the earliest urbanization process from the Indus River to the Amu Darya, proving that extensive trade had been conducted between different regions. Equally important are the stories of nomadic tribes, such as the Indo-Europeans, whose history has been observed from the correct perspective for the time based on the archaeological evidence obtained. This volume presents new evidence, challenges repeated concepts, and employs skilled techniques to reveal the dawn of Central Asian civilization.