It is infinitely easier to appreciate a recently occupied site like Stirling Castle than it is to discern the human element behind the anonymous piles of stones or incomprehensible ancient monuments that dot the Scottish landscape. Yet it is in these mysterious odds and ends - obscure, bewildering, and difficult to interpret—that the earliest roots of Scottish civilization lie. In this sweeping chronological survey, Ross presents an illustrated history of early Scotland and discusses the influence of various cultures on the country, including the Beaker folk, the Celts, the Romans, the Picts, the Vikings, and early Christians. He also explains the significance of the standing stones, tombs, stone circles, burial mounds, hillforts, and other ancient relics and artifacts of these ancient civilizations. Includes a list of sites of interest open to the public. Color and black and white photos and illustrations.