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A Little History of the Earth

Brief Description
A lively account of the history of our planet, from its earliest origins to the present day, told through the major geological changes and scientific breakthroughs. Where has our planet come from, and what lies beneath its surface? How have we come to understand its past... Read More
Format: Hardback
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A lively account of the history of our planet, from its earliest origins to the present day, told through the major geological changes and scientific breakthroughs.

Where has our planet come from, and what lies beneath its surface? How have we come to understand its past and present environments, and what does its future look like? Thanks to scientists who study its rocks, fossils, and landscapes, we know that Earth history spans over four and a half billion years. But there is still much more to discover.

A Little History of the Earth recounts our planet's fascinating past and the science which has shaped how we think about it. Taking us from the formation of the Solar System, the evolution of our atmosphere and oceans, and the first signs of life, through to dinosaurs, mammals, and the eventual arrival of humans, Woodward shows us the full span of Earth history, from deep time to the Anthropocene. Along the way, we learn about the major breakthroughs of the pioneering scientists who have unearthed our planet's secrets.

From fossils of ancient creatures to the very air we breathe, this is the essential guide to our world.

Series: Little Histories

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780300246148

Publisher: Yale University Press

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 28 October 2025

Country: United States

Imprint: Yale University Press

Illustration: 40 b-w illus + 1 fig.

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 216.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 304

About the Author

Jamie Woodward is professor of physical geography at the University of Manchester. He has published extensively on environmental change and recent Earth history. His books include The Ice Age: A Very Short Introduction and The Physical Geography of the Mediterranean.

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