"A discussion of the early Aborigines, including who the people were, where they lived, the rise of civilization, social structure, religion, art and architecture, science and technology, daily life, and entertainment and sports. Features include timelines, fact boxes, glossary, list of recommended reading and web sites, and index"--Provided by publisher.

Who were the Aborigines? -- Where did the Aborigines live -- How do we know about the Aborigines' history -- Origins of the Aborigines -- Aborigines settle Australia -- Limited contact -- Tribes, clans, and territories -- The family -- The dreamtime -- Aboriginal rock art -- Magic and sorcery -- Law and order -- Festivals and ceremonies -- Music, dance, and storytelling -- Body painting and dress -- Tools and toolmaking -- Hunting -- Gathering food -- Growing up -- Health and medicines -- People of the coast -- People of the desert -- People of the rivers -- The Tasmanians -- The Torres Strait Islanders -- The coming of the Europeans -- Aboriginal resistance -- The Aborigines today.