A challenge to the whole basis of thinking on the subject of classical civilization. The author argues that it has its roots in Afroasiatic cultures, and that these influences have been systematically ignored, suppressed or denied since the 18th century.

Martin Bernal is Professor Emeritus of Government Studies at Cornell University, specialising in ancient African civilisations and origins of Western civilisations. He was educated at Darrington and King¿s College, Cambridge, where he was a research fellow and tutor. He has published widely on modern Chinese history.