Amongst the Ruins: Why Civilizations Collapse and Communities Disappear

Amongst the Ruins explores the loss of ancient civilizations, the collapse of ruling elites, and the disappearance of more recent communities and their local traditions, highlighting the rise and fall of places and communities around the world and the importance of protecting cultural heritage.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2023
Publisher: Yale University Press

Amidst the Ruins delves into the profound loss of ancient civilizations, the collapse of ruling elites, and the vanishing of more recent communities and their cherished local traditions. Some of these remnants are hidden beneath 3,000-year-old peat bogs, while others have succumbed to the rising tides or shifting sands. Additionally, the remnants of twentieth-century buildings, now decaying and serving as haunting reminders of the destructive power of war, stand as silent witnesses to the passing of time.

These captivating tales of fallen or lost places are interconnected by themes of war, climate change, natural hazards, human self-destruction, and the intricate interplay of economics. Spanning from the icy realms of the Arctic fringe to the arid landscapes of North Africa, from the towering peaks of South America to the bustling urban sprawl of Southeast Asia, Amongst the Ruins chronicles the rise and fall of places and communities across the globe, the fascinating individuals associated with them, and the significant events that shape their history.

Through a comprehensive exploration of diverse examples spanning from prehistoric times to the present day, John Darlington poses a thought-provoking challenge to us. He urges us to acknowledge past failures and discern the necessary actions we must take to safeguard the rich cultural heritage of our present world.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300259285