In this comprehensive volume dedicated to ancient Chinese civilization, upper elementary–level readers will learn the different dynasties of ancient China, the memorable leaders that spearheaded them, and the lasting influences each period had on civilizations to follow. Readers will learn about the oldest examples of Chinese writing, which ruler was responsible for completing the Great Wall, and the cultural context in which Confucius became a prominent philosopher, among other fascinating details. These ancient Chinese contributions—all still well known today—constitute only a few of the aspects of ancient China waiting to be discovered.

Confucius, the Great Wall, silk, oracle bones, writing, and paper are among the topics explored here. This book starts with Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi's life size terracotta army of soldiers, chariots, and horses. The photographs show the army as it looks today and in the broken disarray of its discovery. The following chapters deal with early development, early dynasties, the unification of China, and the achievements, gifts, and inventions of the ancient Chinese.

Read about ancient Chinese life and the people of ancient China.

Mesopotamia is often called the Cradle of Civilization and it is this region that is the focus of this book. Ancient Mesopotamia, centering on the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, features the rise of city-states and innovations in agriculture. The people of Mesopotamia also developed complex systems of writing, architectural wonders, advancements in military tactics and weaponry, and some of the first recorded legal codes.

Study the people and cultures of the ancient civilizations while learning about their magnificent achievements in architecture, government, science, philosophy, arts, and religion. Each resource integrates history with language arts.

Give your readers a history of ancient Persia, discussing the contributions of rulers from Cyrus to Darius as they expanded the boundaries of the empire. Over a period of almost 1,200 years, the ancient Persians learned to cultivate crops such as wheat and barley and to domesticate animals. They also demonstrated their talents for architecture and art by building enormous palaces, such as at the site of Persepolis, and introduced the idea of worshipping a single god.

Readers will follow the story from the Egyptians' prehistoric origins to their conquest by the Persians, Greeks, and Romans. Begin the journey at Hatshepsut's tomb, Egypt's first woman pharaoh. Then explore the amazing pyramids at Giza, learn about the fascinating language of hieroglyphics, and the rise and fall of the mighty pharaohs.

This book provides an overview of the history of ancient Greece, beginning with the Minoans, Greek mythology, and Mycenae, and continuing to the advent of Rome. Greek philosophy, religion, daily life, love of sports, and art and architecture are also explored.

This book covers the highlights of ancient Rome, including the founding of Rome, mythology, Pompeii, and Roman law, among other topics. The book also focuses on Roman civilization, Roman religion, social life and customs. Everyday life is also featured in the book as well, including the bread and circuses, the trade guilds, the blood games, chariot races, the baths, theatre, poetry, and education.

Read about life in ancient Rome and the people in ancient Rome.