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Long the subject of conjecture rather than science, the origins of language are becoming less obscure as clues to its beginnings are collected from linguistic and archaeological evidence. This newly revised edition of The Atlas of Languages offers the general reader an accessible introduction to the world of languages and linguistics. In a detailed account of the language families of each region of the world, interesting and sometimes unique features of grammar and vocabulary are identified and explained. The archaeological, historical, cultural, or sociopolitical background is examined where it has had an impact on the development, dissemination, or decline of a specific language family. More than 30 full-color maps identify the geographical distribution of languages, both historical and contemporary. Points of general interest are highlighted in special boxed features throughout. Writing systems of the world are also examined in detail. Finally, the book addresses the issue of disappearing languages, as local tongues disappear along with traditional ways of life.
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