This book was originally written by Lim SK and first published in 2011 by Asiapac Books, a Singapore-based publisher. Later, it was also reissued in ePub and eBook formats in 2017.
It is an academic work that provides a comprehensive overview of ancient Asian civilizations up to 1800 AD. Based on historical documents and research findings, the book explores the early developments and achievements of civilizations in the Indus Valley, China, India, and Southeast Asia.
The book carries five chapters. In the first chapter, it states riverine civilizations in India and China (Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, and the Shang Dynasty). The second chapter focuses on trade routes and the propagation of Buddhism and Hinduism. The third chapter covers the Arab and Islamic empires, the Mongol Empire, and China’s Tang and Song dynasties. The fourth chapter highlights South-East Asian civilizations, including Bagan, Angkor, Majapahit, the Khmer, and Vietnamese cultures. The fifth chapter examines pre-colonial Asia, including Japan’s Tokugawa shogunate and various systems of governance across the region.
One notable feature of the book is that it presents history from an Asian perspective rather than a Western viewpoint. It is enriched with maps, photographs, and archaeological findings, making it engaging for readers. It also includes discussions on religion, economy, art, and technology, such as papermaking, coin usage, masonry, and shipbuilding. However, some scholars have pointed out that certain regions, particularly northern Asia and some indigenous cultures, are somewhat ignored (for example, the culture of locals rather than agriculture).
Another distinctive feature of the book is its division of Asia into five regions- West Asia, East Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, and South-East Asia. It provides an overview of ancient civilizations in each region, including their origins, influential rulers, and historical impacts.
Moreover, the book introduces key civilizations such as Mesopotamia in West Asia, and Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cultures. It explains how ancient civilizations have influenced modern societies and offers an accessible summary of Asian history and culture.
In fact, Asia is the largest and most populous continent in the world. It can be divided into five regions- West Asia, East Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, and South-East Asia. West Asia is known as the birthplace of one of the world’s earliest civilizations, Mesopotamia, which emerged during the Neolithic period. Similarly, East Asia saw the rise of Chinese, Japanese, and Korean civilizations around 5,000 years ago. The book helps readers understand who the great conquerors and rulers of the past were and how ancient civilizations continue to influence modern society. It presents important historical developments clearly and engagingly, encouraging readers to explore further.
As it uses illustrations, maps, and visual explanations to make history easy to understand, this book is an essential reference for university students, historians, teachers, and librarians. It is also highly recommended for anyone who wants to gain a foundational understanding of Asian civilizations.
In conclusion, “Asia Civilizations (Ancient to 1800 AD)” can be regarded as a treasure that brings together the grandeur and richness of Asia’s historical heritage in one place.
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