world history
1. Prehistoric Era (before 3000 BCE)
• No written records; history known through archaeology.
• Human evolution, development of tools, discovery of fire.
• Beginning of agriculture and permanent settlements (Neolithic Revolution).
2. Ancient History (c. 3000 BCE – 500 CE)
• Early Civilizations: Mesopotamia, Egypt, Indus Valley, and China.
• Development of writing (cuneiform, hieroglyphics), cities, and states.
• Major empires: Greek, Roman, Persian, Maurya, Gupta, Han.
• Religious and philosophical roots: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Confucianism.
3. Medieval History (c. 500 – 1500 CE)
• Rise of feudalism and kingdoms in Europe.
• Islamic Golden Age, Byzantine Empire, Mongol Empire, Crusades.
• Flourishing cultures in Africa (e.g., Mali Empire) and Asia (e.g., Tang and Song dynasties).
• Rise of universities, cathedrals, and the influence of religion.
4. Early Modern Period (c. 1500 – 1800 CE)
• Renaissance and Reformation in Europe.
• Age of Exploration: European powers colonize the Americas, Africa, and Asia.
• Rise of scientific thinking and early capitalism.
• Powerful empires: Ottoman, Mughal, Ming/Qing, Spanish, British.
5. Modern History (c. 1800 – 1945 CE)
• Industrial Revolution transforms economy and society.
• Revolutions: American, French, and later Latin American independence movements.
• Imperialism and global colonization.
• World Wars I & II: Massive global conflicts reshaping borders and powers.
• Rise and fall of monarchies and empires.
6. Contemporary History (1945 – Present)
• Cold War (USA vs USSR), nuclear arms race, space race.
• Decolonization of Africa and Asia.
• Rise of global institutions (UN, IMF, EU).
• Technology boom, globalization, and the Internet age.
• 21st century issues: terrorism, climate change, pandemics, geopolitical tensions (e.g., Russia-
Ukraine war), and rapid AI development.