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Ancient civilizations have always been a fascinating topic for historians and archaeologists. These ancient societies have left behind a rich legacy that continues to intrigue us to this day. From the pyramids of Egypt to the ruins of Rome, these ancient civilizations have left behind many secrets and fascinating facts. Here are some of the most interesting facts about ancient civilizations that you probably didn’t know.
1. The Oldest Writing System in the World
The Sumerians, who inhabited Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) more than 5,000 years ago, developed the world’s first writing system. The cuneiform script, which was made up of wedge-shaped marks pressed into clay tablets, was used to record everything from taxes to religious texts.
2. The First Olympic Games
The ancient Greeks held the first Olympic Games in 776 BC in the city of Olympia. The games were held every four years and included events such as running, wrestling, and chariot racing. The games were held for over 1,000 years until they were abolished by the Roman Emperor Theodosius in 393 AD.
3. The World’s First Skyscrapers
The ancient Egyptians were the first civilization to build tall buildings. The pyramids of Giza, built more than 4,500 years ago, were the tallest structures in the world until the Eiffel Tower was built in 1889.
4. The Invention of the Wheel
The ancient Sumerians also invented the wheel, which revolutionized transportation and agriculture. The first wheels were used for pottery making and were later adapted for use in carts and chariots.
5. The First Democracy
The ancient Greeks are credited with inventing democracy. The city-state of Athens was the first to introduce a democratic system of government, where citizens could vote on laws and policies. This system was later adopted by other Greek city-states and has influenced modern democracies around the world.
6. The Largest Empire in History
The Mongol Empire, founded by Genghis Khan in the 12th century, was the largest empire in history. At its peak, the empire covered an area of 24 million square kilometers and included territories in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
7. The First City
The ancient Sumerian city of Uruk, located in modern-day Iraq, was the world’s first city. It was founded more than 5,000 years ago and was home to an estimated 50,000 people.
In conclusion, ancient civilizations have left behind a rich legacy that continues to fascinate us to this day. These civilizations have contributed to many of the things we take for granted today, such as writing, the wheel, and democracy. By understanding the achievements and innovations of these ancient societies, we can gain a greater appreciation for the ingenuity and creativity of our ancestors.
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