The Development of Ancient Technology

Since ancient times, technological advances have increased humans' chances for survival. From the practicality of a Roman aqueduct to the art of the written word, we have always adapted our environment to meet our needs, and to provide ourselves with sustenance, comfort, leisure, a higher quality of living, and a thriving culture. This concise reference source takes a closer look at six technological events that significantly impacted the evolution of civilisation, from the Palaeolithic age to the height of the Roman Empire. As he touches on the common elements of ancient technology - energy, machines, mining, metallurgy, ceramics, agriculture, engineering, transportation, and communication - the author asks questions central to understanding the impact of ancient tools on the modern world: What prompts change? What cultural traditions inhibit change? And, what effect do these changes have on their societies and civilisation? Detailed line drawings of tools and machines make ancient mechanics more easily accessible. Primary documents, glossary, biographies, and a timeline dating from the Palaeolithic age to the Roman Empire round out the work, making this an ideal reference source for understanding the technology of the ancient world.