This is a substantially revised and enlarged version of the book that introduced millions to archaeology when it was first published in 1949. This edition throws new light on such perennially fascinating subjects as the rise and disappearance of the Aztec, Mayan and Toltec civilisations in Mexico and central America, and includes recent discoveries on little-known civilisations such as the Sumerians. New chapters deal with Schliemann's conflict with scholars, and the important discoveries and excavations he made up till his death in 1890; with mummies in the Valley of the Kings; and with Cortes and the Treasure of Montezuma. The Chapters and the discovery of Nineveh have been considerably revised and enlarged, as has the chapter on the Valley of the Kings. The author has also taken account of landmarks in archaeology such as the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls.