History of Civil Engineering: Group 1 Objectives Quiz

Sumerian Civilization

• Recognized as the “Cradle of Civilization,” dating back to 8000 BCE.
• Located in ancient Mesopotamia, present-day Iraq.
• Known for pioneering civil engineering and constructing ziggurats.

Indus Valley Civilization

• Existed around 3300 BCE in modern-day India and Pakistan.
• Renowned for advanced urban planning, including grid and drainage systems.

Egyptian Civilization

• Construction of pyramids began around 2800 to 2400 BCE, including the notable Step Pyramid at Saqqara built around 2550 BCE by Imhotep.
• The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and remains standing today.

Historic Engineering Innovations

• The Qanat water management system is over 3000 years old, extending more than 71 km.
• The Parthenon in Greece, built between 447 and 438 BCE, represents significant architectural achievement.

Infrastructure Development

• The Appian Way, created by Roman engineers around 312 BCE, measures roughly 563 km and is considered one of the earliest and most sophisticated road constructions.
• The Great Wall of China, built from the 3rd century BCE to the 17th century AD, spans over 21,196 km, often using rammed earth and later brick in its construction.

Notable Civil Engineers and Innovations

• John Smeaton, the first self-proclaimed civil engineer, designed the Eddystone Lighthouse and is called the "Father of Civil Engineering."
• Thomas Telford became the first president of the Institution of Civil Engineers in 1820.
• Gustave Eiffel designed iconic structures such as the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty.

Majestic Structures and Their Architects

• Imhotep is credited with designing the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the first large stone structure.
• The Sydney Harbour Bridge, completed in 1932, was designed by Australian engineer John Bradfield, who also planned an underground railway system.

Water Management Systems

• Qanats were developed in Persia around 2,500 to 3,000 years ago, facilitating irrigation through gravitational flow.
• Roman aqueducts exemplify ancient water management, built over a 500-year period from 312 BCE to 226 CE, showcasing advanced engineering.

Significance of Ancient Structures

• Machu Picchu, constructed by the Incas, is a remarkable site featuring over 150 structures and precise stonework.
• The use of ashlar masonry demonstrates the Incan expertise in construction, fitting stones together without mortar.

Civil Engineering in the Philippines

• The Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) emerged from the merger of organizations for government and private sector engineers, fostering a professional community.

Overview of Civil Engineering

• Civil engineering, as one of the oldest engineering disciplines, encompasses planning, building, and maintaining the constructed environment.
• It has evolved to adapt to the needs of society, from primitive shelters to complex urban infrastructure.

Test your knowledge on the origins of civil engineering and its importance. Includes an ice breaker section with word puzzles related to civil engineering terms and concepts.