Episodes

  • Milestones of Mankind: The Dawn of Cities
    Jan 8 2025

    The history and archaeology of Uruk, a significant ancient Mesopotamian city. Sources describe Uruk's development from a settlement to the world's largest city during the Uruk period, highlighting its role in urbanization and the emergence of writing. The texts also explore Uruk's political history, spanning various empires and dynasties, and its remarkable architecture, including monumental temples and the Anu Ziggurat. Archaeological findings, such as cuneiform tablets and artifacts, are discussed, illustrating Uruk's cultural and societal advancements. Finally, the sources provide a chronology of Uruk's rulers, drawing from the Sumerian King List.

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    27 mins
  • Milestones of Mankind: The Agricultural Revolution
    Jan 8 2025

    The Agricultural Revolution, a pivotal period approximately 10,000 years ago when humans transitioned from nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyles to settled agricultural communities. This transformation involved the domestication of plants and animals, leading to a reliable food supply. The shift resulted in the development of permanent settlements and significantly impacted societal structures, fostering specialization, trade, and the rise of civilizations. The fertile crescent in the Middle East is identified as a key origin point for this revolutionary change.

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    6 mins