History is a vast and diverse subject that has shaped the course of human civilization as we know it today. From the ancient civilizations to modern times, there have been several eras in world history that have left an indelible mark on our society and culture. In this article, we will discuss the 7 major eras in world history that have had a significant impact on our present-day world.
1. Prehistoric Era
The prehistoric era spans from the emergence of human beings till the invention of writing. This era is divided into three main periods- Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic.
During this period, humans lived in small groups as hunters and gatherers. They used stone tools for various purposes such as hunting, cooking, and building shelters. The most significant development during this era was the invention of fire.
2. Ancient Era
The ancient era covers the period from the invention of writing till the fall of the Roman Empire in 476 CE. This era saw several great civilizations emerge such as the Egyptian civilization, Mesopotamian civilization, Indus Valley civilization, Chinese civilization, and Greek civilization. These civilizations made significant contributions to human culture such as architecture, art, literature, philosophy, and science.
3. Classical Era
The classical era spans from 500 BCE to 500 CE and is marked by the rise of two major empires- The Roman Empire in Europe and The Han Dynasty in China. This era witnessed several significant developments such as the spread of Buddhism and Christianity religions.
4. Medieval Era
The medieval era covers a period from 500 CE to 1500 CE which was marked by feudalism – a system where nobles held land from monarchs in exchange for military service – was prevalent throughout Europe during this time period. This time saw several significant events such as the Crusades, the development of universities, and the Black Death.
5. Renaissance Era
The Renaissance era spans from the 14th to the 17th century and was marked by a renewed interest in art, literature, and science. This era saw several significant developments such as the invention of the printing press, advances in astronomy, and the development of modern banking.
6. Age of Exploration
The Age of Exploration spans from the 15th to the 18th century and was marked by European exploration and colonization of other parts of the world. This era saw several significant developments such as Christopher Columbus’s discovery of America, Vasco da Gama’s discovery of a sea route to India, and James Cook’s exploration of Australia.
7. Industrial Era
The industrial era covers a period from the late 18th century to the early 20th century which was marked by several technological advancements such as steam engines, railroads, telegraphs, and machines that revolutionized manufacturing processes. This era witnessed several significant events such as The French Revolution, The American Civil War, and World War I.
Conclusion
In conclusion, world history is vast and diverse. The above-mentioned eras are just a few examples that have had a significant impact on human civilization. Understanding these eras can help us appreciate our past and provide valuable insights into our present-day world.