The History of Astronomy by Giorgio Abetti

Hardcover. Condition: Very Good, Dust Jacket: Good+. 1952.  Abelard-Schuman. Illustrated. 1st English Edition.

Translated from the Italian by Betty Burr Abetti

The history of astonomy among ancient civilziations is intimiately connected with their calendars, religious ceremonies, and philosophies. In this book, Giorgio Abetti, one of the foremost astronomers in the entire world has written a fascinating account of the development of the noblest and most ancient of the sciences - Astronomy. He begins by giving us a clear concise picture of the contributions made in ancient astronomy by the Chaldeans, Mayas, Jews, Phoenicians, Hindus, chinese, Greeks and Romans. Then devotes a section to the Middle Ages which extends from the fall of the Roman Empire to Copernicus, during which the only bright spot was provided by the Arabs. The rest of the book is concerned with the perioud from Copernicus to present day.