When it comes to ancient civilizations, there were a lot of success stories. From the Egyptians to the Greeks, and the Romans to the Incas, each civilization contributed significantly to human history. However, the question remains – which ancient civilization was the most successful?
There’s no straightforward answer to this question as it depends on what factors you consider for success. For instance, some may argue that a civilization’s military prowess is an essential measure of its success. Others may believe that architectural achievements are the epitome of success.
Regardless of your criteria for measuring success, here are some ancient civilizations that left a lasting impact on human history:
The Egyptians
The Egyptians are undoubtedly one of the most successful ancient civilizations in history. They created an empire that lasted over three millennia and developed an intricate system of hieroglyphics and architecture.
Their pyramids are still considered one of the most remarkable feats of engineering in human history. The Great Pyramid at Giza alone required over two million stone blocks weighing between 2-80 tons each.
The Egyptians also made significant contributions to medicine, mathematics, and astronomy – making them one of the most well-rounded civilizations in human history.
The Greeks
The Greeks’ impact on Western civilization cannot be understated. They gave us democracy, philosophy, literature, art, and architecture that still influence modern life today.
Their philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle laid down some of the foundational principles for Western thought – ideas like logic and reason which continue to shape our world today.
The Greeks were also exceptional military strategists with their phalanx formation considered one of the deadliest military tactics in history.
The Romans
The Romans were known for their vast empire that spanned across Europe and North Africa. They built a network of roads spanning 250k miles across their empire – making transportation easier and faster than ever before.
Their architectural achievements were also impressive, with structures like the Colosseum and aqueducts still standing today.
The Romans were remarkable administrators and legal system designers, which allowed them to rule a vast empire effectively.
The Mayans
The Mayans developed a complex system of writing, mathematics, and astronomy that was ahead of its time. They built impressive structures like pyramids and temples that still captivate visitors today.
Their agricultural techniques were also innovative, using terracing to farm steep slopes effectively. They even developed a sophisticated calendar system that accurately predicted solar eclipses – a feat that even modern astronomers find challenging.
The Incas
The Incas created one of the most extensive empires in pre-Columbian America, spanning across modern-day Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Chile, and Argentina.
They are renowned for their stonework – building structures like Machu Picchu that still leave visitors in awe. Their engineering feats like the Qhapaq Ñan road network allowed them to move resources across their empire with ease.
They also had a sophisticated system of agriculture that allowed them to grow crops in high altitude regions like the Andes mountains.
Conclusion
In conclusion, each ancient civilization had its unique strengths and contributions to human history. The Egyptians’ architectural achievements and contributions to science and mathematics are unparalleled. The Greeks’ impact on philosophy and democracy is still felt today.
The Romans’ administrative prowess allowed them to rule over vast territories effectively. The Mayans’ advanced writing system and astronomical knowledge were ahead of their time. And the Incas’ engineering feats in high altitude regions are still studied by modern engineers today.
Therefore it’s hard to say which civilization was the most successful as each had its unique strengths and contributions to human history.