neolithic period

Murdered more than 5,000 years ago, Otzi the Iceman is the oldest human mummy on Earth. Now, newly discovered evidence sheds light not only on this mysterious ancient man, but on the dawn of civilization in Europe.

"[Provides an] introduction to the [Neolithic] period during which our ancestors stopped hunting and gathering and built permanent, settled villages where they developed farming, herding, new technologies and new social systems ..."--Back cover.

Looks at the major changes that occurred during the Neolithic Era, discussing the beginnings of agriculture and domestication of animals.

Chronicles the history of agriculture, arguing that it began not with the Neolithic farming revolution, but thousands of years earlier.

Examines the civilizations of the Middle East at the end of the Stone Age, discusses the discovery of metal, and describes the societal changes that occurred during the Bronze and Iron Ages as agricultural tools and weapons changed.

Describes the mysterious standing stones and earth mounds which were built by Stone Age peoples and explores how and why they may have been built.

Draws from over one hundred interviews with researchers in Austria, Italy, and Germany to tell the story of the discovery of the oldest naturally preserved human corpse in the Tyrolean Alps in 1991, and to discuss the ensuing eight years of scientific investigation, political intrigue, odd theories, and media coverage.

Draws from over one hundred interviews with researchers in Austria, Italy, and Germany to tell the story of the discovery of the oldest naturally preserved human corpse in the Tyrolean Alps in 1991, and to discuss the ensuing eight years of scientific investigation, political intrigue, odd theories, and media coverage.