Explore the World with World History

1. Prehistory and Early Civilization

Prehistory refers to the period before written records. Modern humans (Homo sapiens) emerged around 300,000 years ago in Africa. Early humans lived as hunter-gatherers, relying on tools made from stone, bone, and wood.

The Neolithic Revolution (c. 10,000 BCE) marked a major turning point when humans began practicing agriculture and domesticating animals. This shift led to permanent settlements, population growth, and social organization.

Some of the earliest civilizations developed near rivers:

• Mesopotamia : (Tigris–Euphrates)
• Egypt: (Nile River).
• Indus Valley: (Indus River).
• China: (Yellow River)

Mesopotamian cities like Ur and Babylon (c. 2900–2350 BCE) introduced writing, law codes, and urban planning.

2. Classical Age (c. 600 BCE – 600 CE)

The Classical Age witnessed the rise of powerful empires and enduring philosophies. This period laid the foundations of governance, science, literature, and religion.

Major civilizations included:

• Roman Empire – Known for law, engineering, and administration
• Han Dynasty (China) – Advanced bureaucracy, Silk Road trade.
• Gupta Empire (India) – Golden age of mathematics, science, and art
• Greek Civilization – Philosophy, democracy, and science.

Major religions and philosophies such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism, Christianity, and Taoism spread widely during this era, shaping ethical and social values across regions.

3. Post-Classical Era (c. 600 – 1450 CE)

This era is characterized by cultural interactions and expanding trade networks. One of the most significant developments was the rise and expansion of Islam, which connected Asia, Africa, and Europe through trade, scholarship, and governance.

Key features include::

• Silk Road trade networks linking East and West
• Preservation and transmission of classical knowledge
• Growth of cities and learning centers like Baghdad

The Mongol Empire, under leaders like Genghis Khan, created the largest land empire in history, facilitating trade and cultural exchange across Eurasia despite widespread destruction.

4. Early Modern Period (c. 1450 – 1750 CE)

The Early Modern Period marked the beginning of global interaction on an unprecedented scale. The Age of Exploration saw European powers exploring new sea routes to Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Major developments::

• Columbian Exchange of crops, animals, and diseases
• Rise of European maritime empires
• Growth of capitalism and mercantilism

Technological advancements like the printing press helped spread knowledge rapidly, contributing to social and religious reforms.

5. Modern Era (1750 – Present)

The Modern Era transformed societies through industrialization, political revolutions, and technological innovation. The Industrial Revolution changed production methods, urbanization, and labor systems.

Key events include::

• World War I and World War II
• Decolonization of Asia and Africa
• Cold War rivalry between the USA and USSR
• Rise of international organizations

In recent decades, digital globalization has connected economies and cultures through the internet, communication technology, and global trade.