Writing is a relative latecomer to the history of language. This program tracks its emergence in Mesopotamia, China, and Mesoamerica and its spread down through the millennia via conquest -- usually violent, sometimes benign -- and colonization. The creation of creoles and pidgins resulting from the interaction of specific populations is also addressed, and speculation is made about the first things written down.

In various languages with English voiceover translation ; optional audio description, and expanded audio description (with English SDH subtitles) ; Title on disc and container: Speaking in tongues: the history of language. Episode four. Civilization to colonization.

1 DVD ; History of writing Language and society Creolesand Pidgins Pidgins.