The Lands of Central Asia: Eight millennia of civilisation, from the Neolithic to the Early Medieval period

This book is the most authoritative single-volume treatment of Central Asia's long history, exploring the civilisations and states that emerged from the Bronze Age to the 5th century AD. It examines their differing religions and cultures and explores their changing relationships over time, with new colour plates in a beautiful hardback edition.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 14 November 2022
Publisher: Scala Arts & Heritage Publishers Ltd

This comprehensive guide is a must-read for anyone interested in delving into the rich cultural heritage of Central Asia. Serving as the most authoritative single-volume treatment of the region's long history, this newly translated volume offers a deep exploration of the civilizations and states that emerged in Central Asia from the Bronze Age to the 5th century AD. It examines the diverse religions and cultures of these societies, tracing their evolving relationships over time. Presented in a stunning hardback edition with all-new color plates, this book aims to bring Central Asia's illustrious history to life for a broader international audience.

The book begins by providing an overview of the historical background and geographical setting of Central Asia. It discusses the region's significance in ancient trade routes, its role as a crossroads of civilizations, and the impact of its climate and terrain on its development. This introductory chapter sets the stage for the subsequent chapters, which delve into the detailed history of the region.

Chapter 1 explores the Bronze Age civilizations that emerged in Central Asia, including the Sumerians, Babylonians, Assyrians, and Hittites. It provides an in-depth account of their political structures, economic systems, and cultural achievements, such as the invention of writing and the development of complex societies. Chapter 2 examines the rise of the Persian Empire in the 6th century BC and its subsequent influence on the region. It discusses the empire's political, economic, and cultural policies, as well as its impact on the development of local cultures and religions. Chapter 3 explores the Greco-Buddhist kingdoms that emerged in Central Asia in the 1st to 3rd centuries AD. It discusses the influence of Greek and Buddhist philosophy on local cultures, as well as the development of art, architecture, and literature. Chapter 4 examines the Islamic conquests of the 7th to 10th centuries AD and their impact on the region. It discusses the establishment of the Caliphate, the spread of Islam, and the development of Islamic civilization in Central Asia. Chapter 5 explores the Silk Road trade network that connected Central Asia with China, India, and the Mediterranean world. It discusses the economic, cultural, and political significance of the Silk Road, as well as the impact of trade on the development of local societies. Chapter 6 examines the post-Islamic period in Central Asia, including the rise of the Mongol Empire and its subsequent influence on the region. It discusses the empire's political, economic, and cultural policies, as well as its impact on the development of local cultures and religions. Chapter 7 explores the modern history of Central Asia, including the Soviet era and the post-Soviet period. It discusses the political, economic, and social changes that have occurred in the region, as well as the challenges and opportunities that Central Asia faces in the 21st century.

Throughout the book, the author employs a wealth of historical sources, including archaeological evidence, historical texts, and contemporary scholarship, to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of Central Asia's history. The book also includes numerous color plates and maps, which help to visualize the historical events and geographical landscapes discussed in the text.

In conclusion, this comprehensive guide is a valuable resource for anyone interested in delving into the rich cultural heritage of Central Asia. It offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the region's long history, from the Bronze Age to the present day. With its engaging writing style, wealth of historical evidence, and stunning visualizations, this book is sure to captivate readers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are a student, scholar, or simply curious about the world, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper appreciation for the history and culture of Central Asia.

Weight: 1020g
Dimension: 176 x 249 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785513732