-
4000 BCE
Early Mesopotamian Civilizations
The earliest known civilizations begin to emerge in the Mesopotamian region.
Development of cities like Uruk. -
3500 BCE
Sumerians in Mesopotamia
Sumerians develop one of the earliest forms of writing, cuneiform.
Construction of the first ziggurats. -
3100 BCE
Early Dynastic Period in Egypt
The unification of Upper and Lower Egypt under the first pharaoh, Narmer
The beginning of the construction of pyramids. -
2500 BCE
Indus Valley Civilization (Harappan Civilization)
Flourishing of the Indus Valley Civilization in present-day Pakistan and northwest India.
Advanced urban planning and early forms of writing. -
2000 BCE
Middle Kingdom of Egypt
The Middle Kingdom period marked by stability and flourishing arts and culture.
Extensive building projects, including temples and fortifications. -
1600 BCE
Shang Dynasty in China
The rise of the Shang Dynasty, known for advances in bronze work and early writing on oracle bones. -
1200 BCE
Olmec Civilization in Mesoamerica
The Olmec civilization emerges in modern-day Mexico, known for giant head sculptures and early urban centers. -
1000 BCE
Hebrew Kingdoms in the Levant
Establishment of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah in the Levant region. -
800 BCE
Greek City-States
Development of city-states like Athens and Sparta in ancient Greece.
Beginnings of Greek philosophy and early democracy. -
500 BCE
Classical Period of Greece
Flourishing of Greek culture, philosophy, and science.
Construction of the Parthenon and other significant architectural achievements. -
323 BCE
Death of Alexander the Great
The end of Alexander’s empire and the beginning of the Hellenistic Period. -
200 BCE
Early Roman Republic
Rome begins its expansion across the Mediterranean, laying the foundations for the Roman Empire. -
1 CE
The Birth of Christ
Traditional date marking the birth of Jesus Christ, a pivotal figure in Western civilization.