This book explains why western civilization is worth knowing about by presenting a consistently topical approach stressing social and cultural themes over the political narrative, incorporating significant discussion of peoples and civilizations outside the boundaries of the West. It focuses on social/economic history including gender roles, family and children, elite groups, urban/rural contrasts, cities and associations, commerce and manufacture and technological innovation. Written by a single author, it offers rich visual images, textual excerpts, timelines, charts and maps, all closely related to the narrative. Social and historical events of Western Civilization to the 1700's including the Stone Age, Bronze and World Armies and Empires, Workers, Warriors, and Kings. Historians or anyone interested in a social, topical approach to Western Civilization with a global perspective.