Agricultural Innovation in the Early Islamic World: The Diffusion of Crops and Farming Techniques, 700-1100.

Watson, Andrew M.

ISBN 10: 052124711X / ISBN 13: 9780521247115

Published by Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, 1983

About this Item

Royal octavo. Pp. x, 260. With 8 full-page maps and many text illustrations. Notes, bibliography, index. HARDCOVER, bound in the original publisher's brown cloth, map endpapers. In fine condition (ownership signature on title-page). Excellent copy, practically unused. ~ The rare original first edition in a book form of Watson's groundbreaking 1974 Journal of Economic History's article. Y-2 OUT. Seller Inventory # 3785

Bibliographic Details

Title: Agricultural Innovation in the Early Islamic...

Publisher: Cambridge, Cambridge University Press

Publication Date: 1983

Binding: Hardcover

Illustrator: ~ [TEMPORARY REDUCTION SALE: 20-30% OFF THE REGULAR PRICE] ~

Edition: 1st Edition

About this title

Synopsis:

This study describes and explains the revolutionary changes which transformed the agricultural life of the Islamicized world in the four centuries following the early Arab conquests. Professor Watson discusses eighteen crops - from sorghum and rye to the watermelon - which spread through the Near East and North Africa during this period. Their origins, diffusion and uses are reviewed. The book investigates the mechanics of diffusion, the routes by which plants spread, and the processes by which they were acclimatized in their new environment. The social and economic history of agriculture in the medieval Islamic world is assessed in a review of wide importance. Professor Watson sets out to refute the view that the early Islamic period was one of agricultural decline in the Near East. He shows that, in contrast to the late Roman and Sasanian periods, it was a time of agricultural and demographic expansion. Agricultural innovation in the early Islamic world will be of interest to economic, social and agricultural historians and to those concerned with Islam and its effect on Africa and Asia.

Book Description:

This study describes and explains the revolutionary changes which transformed the agricultural life of the Islamicized world in the four centuries following the early Arab conquests. Professor Watson discusses eighteen crops - from sorghum and rye to the watermelon - which spread through the Near East and North Africa during this period.