"The Verdict of History: From Antiquity to 2020" is a survey of the human experience and a brief examination of the evolution of civilization. It looks at the great events of the past for meaning in our long struggles through war and peace; and it searches for the important themes that can help us to understand our own times. The references in the text are not authoritative, but elucidations of my own opinions. The narrative repeats many ideas that others have already expressed. My aim is not originality, but inclusiveness.