On the Trail of Ancient Man

"On the Trail of Ancient Man" is primarily a narrative by Roy Chapman Andrews on his fieldwork as leader of the Central Asiatic Expedition of the American Museum of Natural History. In response to many requests for a collected account of his experiences during the expedition, Andrews recounts his adventures throughout Mongolia in the 1920's. He explores Asia, in search of the origins of Ancient Man, as well as the continent's archaeological past. This work is less an attempt at relaying the full scientific significance of the expedition's discoveries, and more an overview of the most important thoughts and ideas.Andrews's analysis takes an anthropological perspective in its exploration of the Mongolian landscape and culture, as well as a paleontologist's point of view when discussing the fossils uncovered, from dinosaur eggs to a Protoceratop's skull. Included is a chapter by the then president of the American Museum of Natural History, Henry Fairfield Osborn, on 'Giant Beasts of Three Million Years Ago'. This work is a fascinating scientific and cultural analysis on the expedition and ancient history of the Mongolian area, captured in anecdote, photographs, and charming words. This is a must for anyone interested in dinosaurs, ancient man, or early twentieth-century expeditions in the name of archaeology.