First published in 2000. This comprehensive book represents the first attempt to write a world history of people's use of social bees: how bees' nests were initially hunted for their honey and wax and, later, how the bees were kept in purpose-made hives. Evidence survives from early times in the form of artefacts, pictures and written records, and also human traditions of dealing with bees. Since 1949 the author has had opportunities to travel in over sixty countries, and to see traditional and modern hive beekeeping and also honey collection from nests. She learned much that helped her to piece together some of the long history in the different continents.

First published in 2000. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

"[Crane] provides extensive coverage of historical and methodological information about bees, beekeeping, and honey. It is an excellent reference source...This fascinating volume is a useful addition to all reference collections." -- American Libraries
"Highly recommended as an outstanding source of information in bees and beekeeping. General readers; undergraduates through professionals." -- Choice