Great ages of man; a history of the world's cultures

Mesopotamia was the first place in which man created and sustained an urban, literate, technologically sophisticated society. Tracing the rise of Sumerian, Babylonian and Assyrian cultures from 5,000 B.C. to the Neo-Babylonian empire of Nebuchadrezzar II, the author supports Mesopotamia's claim to the role of "cradle" of civilization.

Examines the forces which shaped China's cultural development between 1500 and 1000 B.C.

Surveys life in 18th century Europe, and discusses the scientific, religious, philosophical and cultural trends of the time.