This book presents an incisive outline of the historical development and geography of cities. These are: (a) the shifting patterns of urbanization through historical time, (b) the role of cities as centers of production and work in a globalizing world, and (c) the diverse housing and shelter needs of urban populations.

Released to accompany the International Year of Global Understanding (IYGU) Covers some of the most important questions currently being debated by urban scholars Written in an accessible, nontechnical style for the general reader Refers to concrete urban situations in both rich and poor countries Includes supplementary material: sn.pub/extras

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