A rare first edition of  Sir Walter Raleigh's landmark and extensive work about the world's history from biblical times to the conquest of Macedonia by Rome in 146 BC. The book includes the first appearance of the 18 line poem titled 'The Minde of the Front'.  Written prior to Raleigh's execution, whilst he was imprisoned in the Tower of London. The History of the World was not completed by Raleigh, and was finished by Alexander Ross in 1652. With engraved allegorical title by R.Elstrack (old ink signature to the head), woodcut head- & tail-pieces, & chronological tables.  The book lacks pages 3K4 (blank) and 7C5 & 6 (errata leaf and final blank). With 5 (of 8) double-page engraved maps & plans (includes the maps of the Arabian Desert, Middle East, and Land of Goshen and 2 double-page battle plans), one slightly trimmed at edges. Washed, engraved title and facing Minde page a little frayed at edges and laid down. First few leaves of preface reinforced at outer margin. A small rust-hole to 4S6 affecting a couple of letters, and a few other minor marginal defects. Modern half calf, with spine gilt, [ESTC S116300; Pforzheimer 820; STC 20637], [William Stansby] for Walter Burre, 1614. Folio; (Minde and title) (42, Preface), (40, Contents of the Chapters), 1- 776, (2, To the Reader), (26, A Chronological Table), (16, An Alphabetical Table). 9" x 35"