Appropriate for one-semester courses in historical geology. This text assumes basic prerequisite coursework in physical geology.

This exceptionally readable text gives students an in-depth and accurate picture of the complexities of Earth's history and life. The history of Earth is considered not only from the conventional surface approach but also from the perspective of Earth and its role as a member of the solar system. Plate tectonics is placed at a central position in the discussion of Earth's history.