HIST 1-3

Paleolithic Age

The time period from 200,000-10,000 BC characterized by the emergence of Homo sapiens and a hunter-gatherer lifestyle.

Neolithic Revolution

The transformation period around 10,000-4,000 BC where in agriculture and the domestication of animals began.

Fertile Crescent

A region with optimal soil and climate conditions that facilitated early agricultural development.

Sumerians

The first established civilization in Mesopotamia, known for developing the first form of writing, cuneiform.

Cuneiform

The first written language created by the Sumerians, characterized by its wedge-shaped symbols.

Epic of Gilgamesh

An ancient Mesopotamian poem, regarded as one of the earliest works of literary fiction.

Hammurabi's Code

The first written law code that established principles of justice in Babylon.

Polytheism

The belief in or worship of multiple gods, prevalent in Mesopotamian religion.

Hebrew Scripture

The sacred writings of the Hebrew people, comprising the Tanak, including the Torah.

Achaemenid Empire

The first Persian Empire founded by Cyrus the Great, noted for its innovative administrative practices.

Minoan Civilization

An ancient civilization centered on the island of Crete, known for its unique art and architecture.

Mycenaean Civilization

A late Bronze Age civilization in mainland Greece, notable for its military prowess and trade.

Hesiod

An ancient Greek poet who wrote 'Works and Days' and 'Theogony,' offering insights into mythology.

Allegory

A literary device where abstract concepts are represented through characters and events.

Rosetta Stone

A stone inscribed with a decree that provided the key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs.

Ethical Monotheism

The belief system that emphasizes the oneness of God and the importance of ethical behavior as prescribed in the Hebrew tradition.

Canopic jars

Containers used in ancient Egypt for holding the organs of the deceased during mummification.

Sappho

An ancient Greek poet recognized for her lyric poetry, often focusing on themes of love and emotion.