Anthony P. Andrews

Near East (Cradle), Egypt (Nile), Indus (Harappan), China (Shang), Mesoamerica, Maya, Andes. With Maps, References, Index.
The first chapter is a theoretical sketch of the rise of urbanism to state-level societies. Does not depart from the Childe-Mumford-Sjoberg classics.
Fails to mention or hint about the Scythian and upper Nile African influences which pre-date the Cradle and Lower Nile.
The chapter on the Olmec Cultura Madre (Covarrubias [103]) notes the radiocarbon dating of the San Lorenzo site to 1200 BC. However, the author fails to acknowledge African influences -- in spite of 60-ton carved basalt portraits of helmeted Negro warriors. Aiy! And then the claim that the first "true urban culture" in Mesoamerica was the Zapotecs of 500 BC [108]. The rulers surrounded themselves with stone trophies depicting mutilated, castrated, naked males. The defensive wall is huge. Warfare seems to have played a part in the rise of the Zapotec state at Monte Alban [108].… (meer)