TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The great shift between ancient urbanization to modern metropolitan often leave historians and curious minds alike wondering which is exactly the oldest civilization in the world.
The world is expansive as it can be mysterious, so finding out some proof of recorded legacies is considerably tough in action. But, with written history and indelible traces existing, societies are able to discern these ancient urbanizations.
Oldest Civilizations in the World
Based on the data revealed by World Atlas and several historical sources, the Sumerian civilization and the Egyptian civilization are some of the oldest civilizations in the world. Other urbanizations sharing the reputation also mention:
1. The Sumerian Civilization, 4100-1750 BCE
Having a root from Mesopotamia during 4500 and 400 BCE, the Sumerian is the oldest civilization in the world ever recorded. Known as the ‘cradle of civilization’, this ancient urbanization is attributed to varieties of inventions including agriculture and irrigation systems.
Their legacies are well preserved through the architectural wonders called ziggurats where its people integrated spirituality into their lifestyle.
2. The Peru Civilization at Caral-Supe, 3500 BCE-1800 BCE
The ruins of pyramids at Caral-Supe in Peru led to the discovery of the Perut Civilization whose era spanned between 35000-1800 BCE. World Atlas argued that this ancient community was older than Egyptian analogs, which later cemented its significance within the entire region.
It was also stated that this civilization was impacted by the displacement of the Incans during 12 century CE.
3. The Egyptian Civilization, 3150 BCE-30 BCE
The Egyptian Civilization is notably one of the oldest civilizations in the world with a history traced back to the beginning of 3150 BCE. Their people who lived at Marimda Ban Salãma were said to be the first agricultural communities among Ancient Egypt, harvesting wheat and barley.
Their entire urbanization was prompted by King Menes who forged two kingdoms into one civilization that used Hieroglyphs, one of the oldest writing systems ever.
4. The Indus Valley Civilization, 3300 BCE-1300 BCE
Overseeing two major cities, Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, the Indus Valley Civilization had formed the base of modern conveniences at the ancient age of 3300 BCE. Their intricate irrigation systems were both incredibly moving and impactful, having defeated a flood disaster. Beyond the agricultural innovations, the Indus Valley Civilization also domesticated many animals for their own benefits.
5. The Ancient Chinese Civilization of Xia, 2070 BCE-1600 BCE
This one of the oldest civilizations in the world, also known as the Chinese Xia Dynasty, was credited to numerous inventions across industries. Even during the earliest urbanization, Xia Dynasty was able to operate silk processing in 3630 BCE. One of their greatest emperors, Yu, was deemed as a harvest deity for his tenure in founding the draining waters system.
6. Ancient Mesoamerican Civilization of Olmecs, 1200 BCE-400 BCE
Having built a civilization in the lowlands of Mexico, the Olmecs were remarkable for their substantial legacies such as writing, mathematics, and calendar systems. They also had one of the most advanced cultural achievements in numerous fields including artistry, trade, and religious ceremonies.
Toward the end of their reign, the Olmecs failed to survive relentless issues of overpopulation, political strife, climate change, and warfare.
7. Ancient Greek Civilization, 800 BCE-323 BCE
When it comes to the oldest civilization in the world, Ancient Greek is perhaps one of the most popular due to its fascinating inventions. Aside from being the founder of democracy based government, Ancient Greek also left influential works within art and literature belongings including works by Plato, Aristotle, Homer, Sophocles, and many more. Moreover, their legacy of Olympic games has helped establish modern days’ tournaments.
These oldest civilizations in the world are more than just ruins and timelines as they are the roots of humanity itself. For deeper insight of ancient belongings, check out the world’s lost civilizations here.
Editor’s Choice: 10 Oldest Cities in Europe That Continue to Shape Modern Civilization
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