Ofeering unique coverage of the growth of Christianity in Asia, Africa, and South America, as well as in the western world, this accessible guide balances solid scholarship with penetrating analysis. Frederick W. Norris considers not only the geographical and social growth of the Christian tradition, but also the manner in which the practices and doctrines at the heart of the faith have developed and changed over the centuries. This authoritative account also offers: detailed information on such key events as the emergence of Islam, the Crusades, and the nature of missionary activity in Africa and India coverage of the historical development of Christianity in China and the Far East insight into the meeting and mingling of the Christian tradition and other cultures across the world As both an indispensible guide to the history of the Christian faith since the first century AD, and an inquisitive exploration of how religion relates to cultural, national, and social identity, this book will inform and stimulate students, scholars, and general readers alike.