Human evolution tends to be understood in terms of a development from inferior to superior, primitive to advanced, the simple to the complex. In this book Gamble attempts to dispel some of the myths and distortions that this way of perceiving the human past has produced. He looks at human prehistory and behaviour through a detailed study of global colonization and adaptation to climate and environment, and seeks to introduce a fresh approach to the causes behind this dispersal of humans. In the course of his study he presents the latest findings of prehistoric archaeology, and a critique of the attitudes of early European explorers and twentieth-century scholars to the question of human origins.
Explore the fascinating journey of humankind's global dispersal with Clive Gamble's thought-provoking book, "Timewalkers: The Prehistory of Global Colonization." This new edition, published by Sutton Publishing Ltd in 1993, offers a compelling and critical examination of human prehistory, challenging traditional, often Eurocentric, interpretations of human evolution. Gamble expertly dismantles the outdated notion of a linear progression from "primitive" to "advanced," urging readers to reconsider how we understand our ancestral past. Instead of viewing human evolution as a simple ladder of progress, "Timewalkers" delves into the intricate interplay between human behavior, environmental adaptation, and global colonization. Drawing upon the latest archaeological discoveries, Gamble reconstructs the epic saga of early human migrations, tracing our ancestors' footsteps as they ventured out of Africa and populated diverse corners of the planet. He sheds light on the remarkable resourcefulness and adaptability that enabled these early humans to thrive in a wide range of climates and environments, from icy tundra to lush rainforests. "Timewalkers" isn't just a chronicle of past migrations; it's also a powerful critique of the biases that have shaped our understanding of prehistory. Gamble scrutinizes the attitudes of early European explorers and 20th-century scholars, exposing the inherent prejudices that often colored their interpretations of human origins. He reveals how these biases contributed to distorted narratives of human development, often marginalizing or misrepresenting the achievements of non-European populations. This book is not just for archaeologists or academics. Gamble's accessible writing style makes "Timewalkers" an engaging read for anyone curious about the deep history of our species. If you're intrigued by the question of where we come from and how we came to be, this book will offer a fresh and insightful perspective. Prepare to have your assumptions challenged and your understanding of human prehistory transformed as you embark on a journey with the "Timewalkers." Discover the story of global colonization through a new lens and gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and richness of the human past. This book is perfect for readers interested in prehistoric peoples, anthropology, migrations, and the field of archaeology. Dive into 309 pages of groundbreaking research and thought-provoking analysis. With an ISBN-13 of 9780750932776, this paperback edition is a valuable addition to any history enthusiast's collection.