Human civilisations emerged with the invention of agriculture, which allowed early humans to settle down instead of living a nomadic life. Here are the most ancient human civilisations.
Source: history.com
4,000 - 3,500 B.C.
Known as the “birthplace of civilisation,” Mesopotamia spanned modern-day Iraq, Kuwait, and Syria. Despite constant warfare, it advanced in astronomy and law, giving rise to the first cities like Babylon.
3,100 B.C.
Ancient Egypt stood on the bank of the Nile for over 3,000 years and is renowned for its architectural marvels, including the pyramids (2,600 B.C.), and has left a legacy in writing, medicine and farming.
3,300 B.C.
The birthplace of Hinduism, also known as the Indus Valley civilisation spanned modern-day Pakistan, India and Afghanistan. Renowned for its sophisticated urban planning, the civilisation collapsed around 1,700 B.C.
2,000 B.C.
Ruled by a succession of dynasties—Xia, Shang, Zhou and Qin—Ancient China is known for innovations like the decimal system, sundial, abacus, etc. The Great Wall (220 B.C.) was built to protect against Mongol invaders.
1,200 B.C.
Spanning across today’s Colombia to Chile, Ancient Peru encompasses several civilisations and cultures including the Chavín, Paracas, Nazca, Huari, Moche and the Inca empire.
1,200 B.C.
Spanning parts of Mexico and Central America, Ancient Mesoamerica includes a number of indigenous civilisations starting with the Olmec, Zapotec, Maya, Toltec and ultimately, the Aztec empire.
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