This brief but comprehensive book tells the story of how archaeology changed from a romantic adventure into a science. Its vivid narrative combines tales of archaeological discovery with the changing social conditions and theoretical perspectives that helped turn archaeology into a sophisticated discipline. Containing a simple, jargon-free style—and a lifetime of teaching experience—this writer shares with readers his unrivaled experience as an archeologist and an author. Unique coverage includes both major discoveries, and significant, theoretical and methodological developments of the history of archaeology—from a global perspective. For anyone interested in an interpretation of our archeological past that will yield an understanding of today—its beginnings, and the ideas that nurtured it.