The Ancient East

A chronological survey of western Asia in antiquity, organized as successive historical snapshots, it traces the political and cultural evolution of the region by examining migrations, state formation, and interstate rivalry. The narrative follows the emergence and contest of Mesopotamian, Anatolian, Syrian and Egyptian powers, the influence of Phoenician and Aramaean cities, the mechanics of imperial expansion and administration, and the later spread of Greek culture. Chapters combine military and diplomatic history with discussions of population movement, religion, economy, and material evidence, and the work concludes with an epilogue, recommendations for further reading, and supporting maps.