This text records the history of human society throughout the world, from prehistory to the year 2002, in 450 specially commissioned colour maps, 200 illustrations, tables and diagrams, and 200,000 words.

Philip's best-selling Concise World Atlas has been fully-revised and updated for 2004-2005. With 128 pages of authoritative world mapping, a comprehensive index, and a handsomely illustrated introduction to world geography - the Earth in Space - this atlas is highly recommended both for home reference and as a gift. The 128 pages of physical maps give a balance coverage of the world at well-chosen scales. Highly detailed, they have been acclaimed by the Daily Mail as 'clearer than The Times'. The hill-shading on the physical maps provides and exceptionally vivid portrayal of landforms. The 48-page 'The Earth in Space' section, illustrated with informative photographs, maps and diagrams, covers such topics as the Universe, stars and constellations, the Solar System and Earth, earthquakes and volcanoes, forces of nature, oceans and ice, atmosphere and climate, natural environments, population, international organizations, agriculture, energy and minerals, trade and commerce, world economies, travel and communications, and the world today. The extensive alpha-numeric index of 55,000 names includes geographical features such as mountains, rivers, lakes and deserts, as well as provinces