"The development of civilization hinged on the ability of mankind to turn soil into useful tools and beautiful objects. Students can learn about the history of tool-making technology, from the cooking utensils of the ancients to the multipurpose ceramics of today. They can also learn how different peoples created works of art from the earth that helped define their cultures"--Provided by publisher.
Describes mineral resources used in such industries as agriculture, printing, and glassmaking, and explains the discovery, mining, and exploitation of deposits.