Synopses & Reviews
David Phillipson presents an illustrated account of African prehistory, from the origins of humanity through European colonization in this revised and expanded edition of his original work. Phillipson considers Egypt and North Africa in their African context, comprehensively reviewing the archaeology of West, East, Central and Southern Africa. His book demonstrates the relevance of archaeological research to understanding contemporary Africa and stresses the continent's contribution to the cultural heritage of humankind.
Review
"In African Archaeology David Phillipson has produced a work that fulfills its primary role as a college-level text perfectly. In addtion, it provides a literate introduction to African prehistory that is accesible to both the educated public and to those scholars in the historical and social sciences who seek a solid grounding in the evolution of African culture without being overwhelmed by the detail of site reports." International Journal of African Historical Studies"Dr. Phillipson...always sets out his conclusions clearly, and it would be strange if anyone did not come away greatly enriched by looking carefully at this book." The Times Literary Supplement"...a short, accessible and lucidly written account of Africa's unique contribution to human cultural achievements...an ideal introductory text." Nick Sanders, New Scientist
Review
"...a work that fulfills its primary role as a college-level text perfectly. In addition, it provides a literate introduction to African prehistory that is accessible to both the educated public and to those scholars in the historical and social sciences who seek a solid grounding in the evolution of African culture without being overwhelmed by the detail of site reports." International Journal of African Historical Studies
Synopsis
This book provides the only comprehensive and up-to-date examination of African archaeology.
Synopsis
David Phillipson has extended and updated his survey on the archaeology of Africa in a lucid, fully illustrated account of the origins of humanity to the time of European colonisation.
Synopsis
David Phillipson presents an illustrated account of African prehistory, from the origins of humanity through European colonization in this revised and expanded edition of his original work. Phillipson considers Egypt and North Africa in their African context, comprehensively reviewing the archaeology of West, East, Central and Southern Africa. His book demonstrates the relevance of archaeological research to understanding contemporary Africa and stresses the continent's contribution to the cultural heritage of humankind.
About the Author
David W. Phillipson FBA is Professor of African Archaeology and Director of the Museum of Archaeology & Anthropology at the University of Cambridge. He is a Fellow of Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction; 2. The emergence of humankind in Africa; 3. The consolidation of basic human culture; 4. Regional diversification and specialisation; 5. The beginnings of permanent settlement; 6. Early farmers; 7. Iron-using peoples before 1000; 8. The second millennium AD in Sub-Saharan Africa; Bibliography.