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4100 BCE
Sumer
The civilization of Sumeria stands as the oldest known culture to have thrived in the Mesopotamian region, which is presently situated in Iraq. -
3000 BCE
Ancient Egypt
Ancient Egypt is widely recognized as one of history's most innovative and fascinating societies. They strongly believed that their pharaohs were divine beings, and their impressive pyramids are a testament to their advanced architectural skills. -
1500 BCE
Ancient India
India boasts a rich history that dates back to 1500 B.C. and extends until 500 C.E. During this era, it established a flourishing economy and actively engaged in international trade. Additionally, it is the birthplace of prominent religions, including Hinduism and Buddhism. -
900 BCE
Ancient Greece
Ancient Greece had a profound impact on Western culture, particularly in the areas of architecture, art, poetry, and scientific progress. -
753 BCE
Ancient Rome
Ancient Rome was one of the most powerful empires in the world, known for its remarkable achievements in architecture, engineering, law, and military tactics. It was founded in 753 BC and lasted for over a millennium, spanning three continents and ruling over millions of people. Rome's influence can still be seen today in its lasting legacy, from the Colosseum and aqueducts to the Latin language and Roman law. -
400 BCE
Ancient China
The Yellow River Valley civilization in China has its roots dating back to around 400 B.C. This river, spanning over 2,900 miles across China, carries its unique yellow silt all the way from Mongolia to the Pacific Ocean. -
324
Constantine Became Emperor
Constantine became emperor in 324 CE. He was the one to rebuild the greek colony of Byzantium and constructed the city of Constantinople. -
330
Byzantine Empire
The Byzantine Empire, also known as the Eastern Roman Empire, was a powerful state that emerged from the Roman Empire in the 4th century AD. It was centered around the city of Constantinople, which served as its capital and was the largest and wealthiest city in Europe during its time. The Byzantine Empire played a significant role in shaping the history of Europe and the Mediterranean. -
455
Vandals Sacked Rome
The Vandals were a Germanic tribe. They sacked Rome in 455 AD where they pillaged for two weeks. -
476
The Middle Ages
The Middle Ages, also known as the medieval period, spanned from the 5th to the 15th century in Europe. It was a time of great change and transformation, characterized by feudalism, the spread of Christianity, and the rise of powerful monarchies. The period is often associated with knights, castles, and chivalry, but it was also marked by significant advancements in science, literature, and art. It ended in between 1400 and 1450. -
481
Clovis Became King of the Franks
Clovis became king at age 15. He was the founder of the Merovingian Dynasty which ruled for 200 years. He converted himself and most of his people to Christianity. -
570
Birth of Muhammed
Muhammed, the last prophet and messenger of God in Islam, was born in the year 570. His suspected birthdate is August 29, 570 CE. -
610
Islam
Ancient Islam refers to the Islam that existed during the time of the Prophet Muhammad and his immediate successors. During this period, the Islamic faith spread rapidly throughout the Arabian Peninsula, and beyond. The religion was founded on the principles of monotheism and submission to the will of God. The early Muslims faced many challenges, including persecution, but they remained steadfast in their beliefs. -
729
Battle of Tours
The Battle of Tours was fought near the city of Tours, France on October 10, 732 between the Frankish army and the invading Muslim army from Spain. -
Dec 25, 800
Charlemagne Crowned Holy Roman Emperor
Charlemagne was crowned the first Holy Roman Emperor by Pope Leo II on December 25, 800, restoring the Roman Empire since its dissolution in the 5th century. -
878
Alfred Defeats the Danish
In a battle, King Alfred defeated the invading Danish armies in 878. -
950
Christianity Reaches Russia
Christianity reached Russia in the 9th century. In the 950's Olga, the grandmother of Vladimir, was baptized. -
Oct 14, 1066
Normandy Conquers England
William, the Duke of Normandy, led the Norman conquest of England in 1066 and won on October 14th of that year. His victory brought about significant political, administrative, and social changes in the British Isles. -
1095
First Crusade
The Crusades, initiated by the Latin Church and led by Western European forces, were to take back the Holy Land that was under Muslim control. The first control was called in November 1095 by Pope Urban II. The crusade began with 60,000 soldiers and noncombatants. The first crusade was successful. -
1203
Genghis Khan Founded the Mongol Empire
In 1206, Genghis Khan proved himself as one of the most successful military commanders in the world's history by founding the Mongol Empire. Through his leadership, he united various nomadic tribes in the Mongol heartland and established the largest land empire ever known to mankind, stretching from Eastern Europe to China. -
1300
The Renaissance Era
The Renaissance was a period of great cultural, artistic, and intellectual growth in Europe that began in Italy in the 14th century and lasted until the 17th century. It marked a transition from medieval times to modernity and was characterized by a renewed interest in classical learning, humanism, and scientific discovery. The era produced some of the greatest artists, thinkers, and writers in history and had a profound impact on the development of Western civilization. -
1453
The Hundred Years' War Ends
The Hundred Years' War was a prolonged period of conflict between England and France, originating from a succession dispute when Edward III of England made a claim to the French throne. Despite facing opposition from the French nobility, the war persisted for 116 years, divided into three distinct phases: Edwardian, Caroline, and Lancasterian. Although the war officially came to an end in 1453, it wasn't until 1475 that a peace treaty was finally signed. -
1517
The Protestant Reformation
The Protestant Reformation was a major religious movement that began in the 16th century, led by figures such as Martin Luther and John Calvin. The movement sought to reform the Catholic Church and challenged many of its teachings and practices. The Reformation resulted in the formation of new Protestant denominations and had a significant impact on Europe and the world. -
The Age of Exploration
The Age of Exploration was a period of time in the 15th and 16th centuries when European explorers set out to discover new trade routes, territories, and resources. This era saw the discovery of new lands, the colonization of America, and the establishment of global trade networks. It was a time of great exploration and discovery, but also of conflict and exploitation. -
United States Revolution
In the 1700's the US revolted against England's harsh and constricting rule. They demanded their independence and freed themselves, becoming their nation. -
U.S. Civil War
The US Civil War, which took place from 1861 to 1865, was a significant conflict fought between the northern states (Union) and the southern states (Confederacy) over issues such as slavery, states' rights, and the power of the federal government. The war resulted in a high number of casualties and had a profound impact on the nation as a whole. Ultimately, the Union emerged victorious, leading to the abolition of slavery and the reunification of the United States. -
The Start of World War I (The Great War)
After the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand (done by Serbian nationalist Gavrilo Princip), Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia. After this declaration, both Serbia's and Russia's army began mobilizing. Thus, beginning the Great War. -
Treaty of Versailles and the founding of the League of Nations
The Treaty of Versailles was created for Germany to pay for what it did, give up territory, and reduce their military. As well as admit guilt. The same year, the League of Nations was created to promote international cooperation and achieve peace. -
Adolf Hitler Becomes Fuhrer of Germany
On August 19, Adolf Hitler (formerly the Chancellor of Germany) made himself the Fuhrer (King) of Germany. This was a self-appointed title. This gave him unlimited power and control in Germany. -
Hitler Targets the Jewish People
On September 15, 1935, Adolf Hitler stripped German Jews of their rights by Nuremberg Race Laws. Later, On January 30, 1939, Hitler threatened Jewish people during the Reichstag speech. Later Adolf would go on to target other minorities such as people of color or homosexuals. -
Hitler Violates Treaty of Versailles
Going against the Treaty of Versailles, Adolf Hitler introduced military conscription. -
World War II Begins
In order to protect Poland, both England and France declared war on Germany and the Nazi Party. -
Germany and Japan Become Allies
Japan, Germany, and Italy formed the Axis powers in 1940. They signed the Tripartite Pact in Berlin, establishing a defense alliance between the three. The alliance was aimed at the United States and was intended to prevent US involvement. -
Japan Attacks Pearl Harbor, Hawaii
On December 7, 1941, just before 8 am, the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service attacked the United States Naval Base located in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. More than 180 aircraft were destroyed, more than a dozen ships decimated, and thousands killed. This attack was not authorized by Hitler but was met with astonishment. Once the US declared war on Japan, Germany and Italy declared war on America. Historians say that this was Hitler's greatest error in judgment. -
Italy Surrenders
In 1943, Mussolini was removed from his position, and the fascist government collapsed. General Pietro Badoglio assumed power after Mussolini. Italy surrendered to the United States. -
D-Day
The D-Day operation took place on the beaches of Normandy, France. The Allied forces stormed the beaches and delivered five naval assault divisions. This operation (nicknamed OVERLORD) is known as the largest amphibious invasion in military history. -
The Atomic Bomb dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan
In 1945, the first atomic bomb was detonated at the Trinity test sight in New Mexico. This was known as the Manhattan Project. On August 6, the United States bombed Hiroshima. It razed and burnt over 70% of buildings and caused an estimated 140,000 deaths by the end of 1945. Three days later, Nagasaki was bombed as well. -
The End of World War II
After the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan surrendered. Months before V-J Day (Victory over Japan Day), Adolf Hitler killed himself as soviet troops entered Berlin. -
Cold War
The Cold War was a period of geopolitical tension between the United States and its NATO allies, and the Soviet Union and its allies in the Eastern Bloc. Lasting from the end of World War II until the early 1990s, the Cold War was characterized by political and military rivalry, economic competition, and ideological conflict between the two superpowers.