Roughly half the world's population speaks languages derived from a shared linguistic source known as Proto-Indo-European. But who were the early speakers of this ancient mother tongue; and how did they manage to spread it around the globe? Until now their identity has remained a tantalizing mystery to linguists; archaeologists; and even Nazis seeking the roots of the Aryan race. The Horse; the Wheel; and Language lifts the veil that has long shrouded these original Indo-European speakers; and reveals how their domestication of horses and use of the wheel spread language and transformed civilization. Linking prehistoric archaeological remains with the development of language; David Anthony identifies the prehistoric peoples of central Eurasia's steppe grasslands as the original speakers of Proto-Indo-European; and shows how their innovative use of the ox wagon; horseback riding; and the warrior's chariot turned the Eurasian steppes into a thriving transcontinental corridor of communication; commerce; and cultural exchange. He explains how they spread their traditions and gave rise to important advances in copper mining; warfare; and patron-client political institutions; thereby ushering in an era of vibrant social change. Anthony also describes his fascinating discovery of how the wear from bits on ancient horse teeth reveals the origins of horseback riding. The Horse; the Wheel; and Language solves a puzzle that has vexed scholars for two centuries--the source of the Indo-European languages and English--and recovers a magnificent and influential civilization from the past.
#348770 in Books 2004-08-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.22 x .90 x 6.42l; 1.14 #File Name: 069112048X368 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Four StarsBy dheepa sundaramgood text for introducing students to Hinduism1 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Extremely well researchedBy Andrew TompkinsOne of the best anthropological studies of "popular hinduism." Having worked in India for many years and in a variety of places I have found this book to most accurately describe what I have experienced.While many studies of Hindu religious belief focus on philosophy it is ritual and practice that make up the most important elements of a majority of Hindus lives; not philosophy. This book is one of a rare quality in documenting a lifetime of research and experience. Anyone desiring to learn a more accurate understanding of the Hindu life and ritual can find that here in this volume.0 of 2 people found the following review helpful. UsefulBy OlesyaVery informative and helpful book if you want to learn more about Hinduism. Sometimes can be a little boring and tedious; but such moments are very rare.
