Mesopotamia and Ancient Civilizations

Flashcards covering key concepts from Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, and Classical Greece including important figures, events, and cultural developments.

What does Mesopotamia mean and where is it located?

It means 'land between the rivers' (Tigris and Euphrates).

What major developments originated from Mesopotamia?

Writing, cities, and organized religion.

Who was Sargon of Akkad?

The first emperor in history who founded the Akkadian Empire around 2334 BCE.

What is the significance of the Epic of Gilgamesh?

It reflects Mesopotamian views on death, human limits, and is one of the earliest known stories in world literature.

What was the Code of Hammurabi?

One of the first written law codes created by Hammurabi, featuring strict and class-based laws.

How did the Nile River influence Egypt?

It flooded predictably, providing fertile soil for farming and supporting trade and transportation.

Who was Menes/Narmer?

The first pharaoh who unified Upper and Lower Egypt and founded the city of Memphis.

What military technology did the Hyksos introduce to Egypt?

Horse-drawn chariots and composite bows.

What is a chariot?

A two-wheeled, horse-drawn military vehicle used in ancient warfare.

Who was Hatshepsut?

The first major female pharaoh who promoted trade and built grand monuments.

What characterized the Persian Empire?

It was the largest empire of its time known for tolerance toward different cultures and organized with satrapies.

What was Zoroastrianism?

A religion founded by Zoroaster that taught dualism between good and evil.

What was the significance of the Battle of Marathon?

It showcased the power of hoplite warfare and boosted Greek morale by defeating the Persians.

Who is considered the 'Father of History'?

Herodotus, who wrote about the Persian Wars in a systematic historical manner.

What did Thucydides focus on in his historical writings?

Human behavior and the real causes of conflict, relying on evidence and eyewitness reports.