Prehistory: A Very Short Introduction

Prehistory spans 4 million years before written history, with Australopithecines in Africa. It provides a sense of scale and reveals human and cultural diversity. Homo sapiens is the only species to have impacted planetary systems. Chris Gosden's Very Short Introduction explores the new landscape of prehistory and the interconnectedness of geographical locations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2018
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Prehistory spans a remarkable period of approximately 4 million years preceding the emergence of written history, during which our earliest ancestors, the Australopithecines, roamed the African continent. However, this period pales in comparison to the Earth's vast history of approximately 4.5 billion years. A fundamental aspect of prehistory is its ability to provide a sense of scale, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary lifestyles. Throughout millions of years, humans and their predecessors inhabited diverse ways of life, representing only a tiny fraction of the cultural diversity that has existed throughout history. While humans are integral components of the broader evolution of landscapes and communities of plants and animals, Homo sapiens stands out as the sole species to have exerted a significant influence on planetary systems. To fully comprehend the profound impact of Homo sapiens, it is essential to delve into our long-term development and diverse ways of life.

In this revised edition of his renowned Very Short Introduction, Chris Gosden invites us to contemplate our identity by exploring our past. Over the past decade, archaeology has witnessed significant advancements, leading to the formation of a new framework for prehistory. A deeper understanding of Chinese and central Asian prehistory has profoundly altered our perception of Eurasian prehistory, revealing extensive cultural influences spanning vast regions. This has challenged the traditional notion of human progress, which traditionally revolves around the invention of agriculture, the emergence of cities, and (much later) the industrial revolution. Instead, it has presented us with fresh geographies to contemplate.

Chris Gosden embarks on a journey to explore the evolving landscape of our prehistory, examining how the various geographical locations interweave. He sheds light on the interconnectedness of our past, highlighting the profound impact of human activities on the environment and shaping the course of human history. Through this insightful exploration, Gosden provides readers with a deeper appreciation of our origins and the rich tapestry of our collective heritage.

The Very Short Introductions series, published by Oxford University Press, boasts an extensive collection of titles spanning nearly every subject area. These concise and accessible books offer a valuable introduction to complex concepts, making them ideal for both students and general readers seeking to expand their knowledge. By delving into the realms of prehistory, Chris Gosden's Very Short Introduction offers a thought-provoking journey into our past, helping us to understand the foundations upon which our modern world has been built.

Weight: 140g
Dimension: 173 x 119 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198803515
Edition number: 2 Revised edition