When it comes to Ancient Greece, many people wonder whether it belongs to BC or AD. The answer is simple: Ancient Greece is considered to be BC, or Before Christ. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why Ancient Greece is categorized as such and explore the history of this fascinating period.
What is BC?
BC stands for “Before Christ,” which is a way of counting years backwards from the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a common way of dating historical events and periods before the start of the current era. The year 1 AD marks the beginning of the current era, also known as the Common Era (CE).
History of Ancient Greece
Ancient Greece was a civilization that existed from around 800 BC to around 500 BC. It was located in the eastern Mediterranean region and consisted of various city-states such as Athens, Sparta, Corinth, and Thebes. The Greeks were known for their advancements in philosophy, art, literature, mathematics, and science.
The earliest known civilization in Greece was the Minoan civilization on Crete, which dates back to around 2600 BC. However, it was during what is known as the Archaic period (800-500 BC) that Greek culture began to flourish.
The Archaic Period
During this period, Greek city-states began to emerge and develop their own unique cultures. Athens became a center for democracy and philosophy while Sparta became known for its military prowess.
The Greeks also began to engage in trade with other civilizations such as Egypt and Persia. This led to an exchange of ideas and cultural influences.
The Classical Period
The Classical period (500-323 BC) saw further advancements in Greek culture. This was a time when some of the most famous Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle lived and taught.
The Greeks also fought a series of wars against the Persian Empire, culminating in the famous Battle of Marathon in 490 BC. This victory is considered to be one of the greatest military achievements in Greek history.
The Hellenistic Period
After the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC, Greece entered what is known as the Hellenistic period. During this time, Greek culture spread throughout the Mediterranean world, influencing art, literature, and philosophy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ancient Greece is categorized as BC because it existed before the birth of Jesus Christ. Despite being over 2000 years old, Greek culture continues to influence our modern world. From philosophy to democracy to medicine, the legacy of Ancient Greece lives on.