Symbols are an integral part of our world. Almost half the entries in this book have been designed since the twentieth century - but just under a fifth of them are more than two thousand years old. From religion to recycling, symbols deliver a quick and simple message, whether it's a warning, a direction or simply a badge of allegiance to be recognized by others. This fascinating book traces the origins of our most familiar symbols and explains how they were created and the impact they have made. Book jacket.