What Is the Study of Ancient Civilization Called?

The study of ancient civilization is a fascinating field that focuses on the history, culture, and achievements of civilizations that existed in the distant past. This area of study is known as archaeology, which is a branch of anthropology that deals with the scientific study of human history and prehistory through the excavation and analysis of artifacts, structures, and other physical remains.

What is Archaeology?

Archaeology is the scientific study of past human societies and cultures by analyzing artifacts, structures, and other physical remains. Archaeologists use a variety of techniques to excavate sites and analyze artifacts such as pottery, tools, weapons, jewelry, and other objects to gain insight into how ancient people lived their lives.

History

The history of archaeology can be traced back to ancient times when people began to collect and display artifacts from previous civilizations. However, it was during the 19th century that archaeology became a recognized scientific discipline. The development of new techniques for excavation and analysis allowed archaeologists to uncover previously unknown aspects of ancient civilizations.

The Importance of Studying Ancient Civilization

Studying ancient civilizations provides us with valuable insights into our shared human history. By understanding how societies functioned in the past, we can learn about the origins of our own cultures and traditions. Additionally, studying ancient civilizations can help us appreciate the contributions made by these societies in fields such as art, architecture, science, and medicine.

Examples

Some famous examples of ancient civilization include:

  • The Egyptians – known for their impressive pyramids and hieroglyphics
  • The Greeks – known for their contributions to philosophy, literature, art, science (including mathematics), politics
  • The Romans – known for their impressive engineering feats such as aqueducts and roads
  • The Maya – known for their impressive architecture including pyramids and temples
  • The Incas – known for their impressive stonework and agricultural practices
  • The Chinese – known for their contributions to philosophy, literature, art, science, and technology

Conclusion

In conclusion, the study of ancient civilization is an important field that helps us understand our shared human history. Through archaeology, we can gain insight into how ancient societies functioned and learn about their contributions to fields such as art, architecture, science, and medicine. By studying ancient civilizations, we can gain a greater appreciation for the diversity of human culture and the achievements of our ancestors.