Exam 1: The Ancient Near East: The First Civilizations
Instructions: Please write a thorough, well-organized essay to answer each question. Historians divide the past into periods as a means of understanding historical development. What time periods are covered in Chapter One? Clearly identify each time period and explain its main features. How do these periods fit together? Evaluate the usefulness of this division of history into periods.
In Chapter One, the time periods covered are the Paleolithic Era, the Neolithic Era, and the Bronze Age. Each of these periods has distinct features that mark significant developments in human history.
The Paleolithic Era, also known as the Old Stone Age, is characterized by the use of stone tools and the development of early human societies as hunter-gatherers. This period spans from approximately 2.5 million years ago to around 10,000 BCE. The main features of this era include the emergence of Homo sapiens, the development of language, and the use of fire for cooking and warmth.
The Neolithic Era, or the New Stone Age, began around 10,000 BCE and saw the transition from hunting and gathering to agriculture and settled communities. This period is marked by the domestication of plants and animals, the development of pottery and weaving, and the establishment of permanent settlements. The Neolithic Revolution, which occurred during this time, led to significant changes in human society and culture.
The Bronze Age, which began around 3300 BCE, saw the widespread use of bronze tools and weapons, as well as the development of complex societies and early civilizations. This period is characterized by the rise of urban centers, the emergence of writing systems, and the development of trade networks.
These periods fit together as part of a larger narrative of human development and progress. The Paleolithic Era laid the foundation for human society, the Neolithic Era marked a significant shift in human lifestyle and culture, and the Bronze Age saw the rise of early civilizations and the development of complex societies.
The division of history into periods is useful for understanding the progression of human development and the key milestones that have shaped our world. By categorizing history into distinct periods, historians can analyze and compare the social, economic, and technological changes that occurred during each era. This division also allows for a more organized and comprehensive study of human history, providing a framework for understanding the interconnectedness of different time periods and their impact on the present day. Overall, the division of history into periods provides a valuable tool for understanding the complexities of human development and the forces that have shaped our world.
Instructions: Please use this outline map of the Near East to answer the question(s).
Clearly draw in the boundaries of the Assyrian and Persian Empires at their height.

Which of the following CANNOT be attributed to the Sumerians?
Which of the following CANNOT be associated with the emergence of international empires after 1500 b.c. ?
Instructions: Please write a thorough, well-organized essay to answer each question. Explain the contributions of the Hittites, Phoenicians, Assyrians, and Neo-Babylonian in the development of ancient civilization.
Key Terms Instructions: Please define the following key terms. Show Who? What? Where? When? Why Important?
Egypt
Key Terms Instructions: Please define the following key terms. Show Who? What? Where? When? Why Important?
Zoroastrianism
Which of the following statements is true of the Hittite empire ?
Instructions: Please write a thorough, well-organized essay to answer each question. What is civilization? What were the main characteristics of the first civilizations? How were the first civilizations related to life in prehistory?
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