This study aims to trace the origin and evolution of the idea of prolongevity: the belief that it is possible and desirable to extend significantly the length of life by human action. Primary attention is given to developments before the end of the 18th century. There are, however, numerous references to modern times. The author has tried to integrate the history of ideas and the history of science, for a concept like prolongevity reflects almost equally the influence of philosophy, religion, science, and medicine. He has also attempted to apply some of the methods of world history. Contents: Introduction: The Problem of Death, and the Idea of Prolongeviry; Apologism; Prolongevity Legends; Taoist Prolongevitism in Theory and in Practice; The Alchemists; The Hygienists; The Philosophes; Epilogue; Bibiliography. This is a print on demand edition of an important, hard-to-find report.