"...a work that fulfills its primary role as a college-level text perfectly. In addition, it provides a
literate introduction to African prehistory that is accessible to both the educated public and to those scholars
in the historical and social sciences who seek a solid grounding in the evolution of African culture without being
overwhelmed by the detail of site reports."
--International Journal of African Historical Studies
Cambridge University Press Web Site, June, 2005
Summary
David Phillipson presents an illustrated account of African prehistory, from the origins of humanity through
European colonization in this revised and expanded edition of his original work. Phillipson considers Egypt and
North Africa in their African context, comprehensively reviewing the archaeology of West, East, Central and Southern
Africa. His book demonstrates the relevance of archaeological research to understanding contemporary Africa and
stresses the continent's contribution to the cultural heritage of humankind.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. The emergence of humankind in Africa
3. The consolidation of basic human culture
4. Regional diversification and specialisation
5. The beginnings of permanent settlement
6. Early farmers
7. Iron-using peoples before 1000
8. The second millennium AD in Sub-Saharan Africa
Bibliography.
