Ancient Civilizations Overview

Ancient Civilizations Overview

• Development of human societies began with interaction among individuals, leading to the formation of groups, cultures, and civilizations.
• Ancient civilizations have influenced modern society and laid the groundwork for contemporary cultures.

Mesopotamian Civilization

• Existed from 3500 to 500 B.C. in modern-day Iraq, Syria, and Turkey, located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.
• Innovations included the invention of the wheel, essential tools, and a formal written script.
• Society comprised several city-states, such as Akkad and Babylon, contributing to advanced culture and art.
• Notable literary work: the Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the earliest known epic stories.

Egyptian Civilization

• Flourished from 3100 B.C. to 30 B.C., with settlers along the Nile River benefiting from its resources.
• Influenced heavily by Pharaohs; advanced in mathematics, astronomy, and medicine.
• Developed hieroglyphics for writing and constructed iconic tombs, primarily pyramids.

Indus Valley Civilization

• Spanned 3300 B.C. to 1300 B.C. in the South Asian region, known for advanced urban planning.
• Built cities with sophisticated trade systems, drainage systems, and organized markets.
• Developed weight and measurement systems and crafted materials like copper and bronze.
• Evidence of religious beliefs found through toys, scripts, and sculptures; governed by a centralized authority.

Chinese Civilization

• Emerged from 1600 B.C. to 1040 B.C. near the Huang River.
• Known for innovations like silk, paper, and weapons; primarily agrarian society with simple living conditions.
• Government typically ruled with cruelty; culturally significant in idol worship and advanced technology, such as cannon and printing.

Greek Civilization

• Renowned for contributions to philosophy through figures like Aristotle, Plato, and Socrates.
• Established foundational theories in physical and metaphysical thought.

Roman Civilization

• Existed from 600 B.C. to 480 B.C.; initially ruled by dictators but transitioned to a Republic.
• Noted for administrative effectiveness, military prowess, superstitious beliefs, and devotion to deities, alongside rich literary contributions.

Maya Civilization

• Thrived from 2600 B.C. to 900 B.C. in northern parts of the Americas with a population of around 19 million.
• Known for large architectural constructions, a formal writing system, mathematical advancements, including the concept of zero.
• Skilled in agriculture, surgery, and established trade systems; relied on a solar calendar for timekeeping.
• Distinct culture was largely undermined by Spanish invaders.