Cover; Title Page; Copyright Page; Table of Contents; List of figures; List of key archaeologist boxes; List of key developments boxes; List of contributors; Preface; 1 The archaeology of archaeology: Pre-modern views of the past; 2 Ancient Europe: The discovery of antiquity; 3 The Aegean world; 4 The Classical world: Antiquarian pursuits; 5 Egypt; 6 Western and Southern Asia; 7 Africa; 8 The Far East; 9 Russia; 10 North America; 11 Mesoamerica; 12 South America; 13 Australasia; Conclusion: The future of archaeology; Index.

The History of Archaeology: An Introduction provides global coverage with chapters devoted to particular regions of the world. The regional approach allows readers to understand the similarities and differences in the history of and approach to archaeology in various parts of the world. Each chapter is written by a specialist scholar with experience of the region concerned. Thus the book focuses on the earliest beginnings of archaeology in different parts of the world, and how it developed from being a pastime for antiquarians and collectors to a serious attempt to obtain information.