In this early work of anthropology, Painter explores the origins and evolution of human civilization. Drawing on sources from around the world, he presents a comprehensive survey of the diversity and commonalities of human culture. This book remains a valuable resource for students and scholars of anthropology, history, and sociology.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.

This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.