"From the familiar tales of Greece and Rome and the opulence of the major Chinese dynasties, to the great empires of Egypt and Mesopotamia, Great Civilizations encompasses the rise and fall, victories and defeats, leaders and subjects, of many diverse and magnificent cultures. This comprehensive and colorful guide traces the development of the world's greatest civilizations - the powerful, the peaceful, the opulent, and the formidable. Whether they were destined to last just a few years, or dominate the world for centuries, this guide provides a fascinating insight into the foundations, politics, peoples, and customs of the powers of the ancient world." --provided by Goodreads.