Explains why some societies developed into great civilizations or mighty empires, while others held on to a tribal existence, exploring the forces that shaped them and the leaders who created them.

Maps on endpapers. "Previously published as part of the Step Into series in ten separate volumes: Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece, Ancient India, Aztec & Maya worlds, Chinese empire, Mesopotamia, North American Indians, Roman empire, Stone age, Viking world"--T.p. verso. Includes index.