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Nice question, but a little broad.  For a general treatment of the history of
cities by a wonderful architectural historian, see Spiro Kostof' A History of
Architecture: settings and rituals. His index terms, "city-planning" and
"cities," lead to several nations and time periods in the main text.  His
chapters are followed by indications of further readings. Hope this helps your
student narrow his topic a little.

Meg Klinkow
partner, Kenamore & Klinkow