The significance of the Minoan civilization

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BY THE ARCHAEOLOGIST EDITOR GROUP

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Since originating in Eurasia, modern man (Homo sapiens) has evolved in accordance with the climatic and geographic conditions of the regions where he was discovered. The skills of agriculture and the domestication of animals were discovered thanks to his growth in the Anatolian and Mesopotamian regions. The surrounding areas started to see this progress. The western shores of Asia Minor, Cyprus, the Aegean, Crete, Greece, the Italian peninsula, and other places formed a road of civilization for the agricultural revolution of the East.

All specialized scientists today acknowledge this course of development (anthropologists, archeologists, archaeobiologists, etc.). The "flow" of new cultural aspects like knowledge, techniques, instruments, terminologies, etc. was slower than it is now. The early inhabitants of the Greek region were caught up in it like a "'wave," since it was slow and appropriate for the tools and circumstances of the time. Clearly, it was the population that existed on the Greek mainland and in the Aegean before the later Greeks from the northeast arrived, which the Mycenaeans referred to as Pelasgians.

As for the Stone Age in Crete, according to the evidence so far, there is clear evidence of the presence and activity of modern man in the period between 6100 and 5700 BC (Knossos, pre-Ceramic period; see History of Crete by Detorakis). According to the findings, people of this period apparently knew how to cultivate cereals and kept goats, sheep, pigs, and cattle. That is, the knowledge of these activities was acquired and apparently came from the sea.

This means that the people of Crete had permanent residences and were engaged in agriculture, animal husbandry, and the sea. Since the distances to the Aegean islands were short, there was communication with the coasts of Asia Minor, Cyprus, and the Eastern Mediterranean.

As far as the tools of this period (Neolithic) are concerned, the main materials used were river stones, bones, and wood, and for the houses also bricks, stones, and wood. However, it is noted that besides the settlement sites, there are also activities (dwellings, etc.) in caves, as in Miamou, Eileithyia, and Akrotiri in Chania.

In general, since then, these conditions and the way of life have been improved and enriched with new methods and new tools (e.g., the ceramic wheel). In the following phases, and during 3000 BC, copper appeared, which means that a new development comes with growth in all areas. The next period is the one called the famous Minoan civilization, that is, the civilization of the people of Crete in the Bronze Age.

According to all the evidence available so far, Crete was inhabited at that time by modern people, of whom it is not known when and from where they came but who had contacts with the whole Aegean, Asia Minor, Cyprus, Western Asia, and Egypt. It is the main representative of the "Sea Peoples" as described by the Egyptians with their hieroglyphics.

Communication by sea, of course, requires suitable ships, experienced seamen, knowledge of geography, navigation, weather, and climate conditions, but most importantly, they acquired the ability to communicate with other cultures (in other languages) and to transport goods to and from Crete. In this whole process across the sea, they have acquired enormous knowledge about the development of the other civilizations of the region, and Egypt in particular, which they now not only carry back but also spread throughout the region.

All these activities, of course, lead to considerable wealth that lands on Crete and promotes the development of life and society in all areas. The archeological excavations of the last century brought to light the famous Minoan palaces, the famous mansions, the farmhouses, the religious caves, the summit sanctuaries, the harbors, and the tombs.

All these are elements of a civilization of the second millennium BC with incredibly advanced features in construction, architecture, pottery, painting, metallurgy, sculpture, social organization, legislation and law, the status of women, the family, the economy, agriculture, and animal husbandry. Among the most important for modern man were the first writings (hieroglyphics and Linear A', which could not be read accurately, and later Linear B', on clay tablets).

A miracle of social, economic, and cultural organization and development in such a distant time The most important element of Minoan civilization, however, was its extroversion, that is, the adoption of every new idea and development encountered by others with whom it had contacts and its simultaneous spread throughout the region. Since the main activity of the Minoans was maritime trade in the Mediterranean, in order to secure their rule in the region, they founded port facilities in many areas outside Crete, in the Cyclades, in Palestine, in the Italian peninsula, etc.

These places were trading bases and, at the same time, places of cultural diffusion and development. In short, the Minoans were the ones who acted as a significant influence on modern human technological and cultural development. There were other contemporary or earlier civilizations in the eastern Mediterranean, west Asia, and Egypt.

But all of these civilizations were introverted; they had to deal with each other and even conflict because they were land civilizations and communication was over land or rivers. The Egyptian advanced civilization was in Africa, and the Egyptians did not trade across the sea. This area was ruled by the Minoans.

They were the maritime rulers of the Bronze Age in the Eastern Mediterranean, the transporters of products, ideas, arts, and tools—that is, in principle, the owners of the knowledge of any innovation and its dissemination. But they applied every innovation in their lives in Crete—in architecture, in art, in agriculture, etc.

The palaces at Knossos, Phaistos, Mallia, and Zakros, when discovered by archeologists, left everyone who studies history and culture speechless. The architecture, the organization, the storerooms, the water supply, the drainage, the ventilation, the paintings, the frescoes, the ceramics, the theaters, the streets, the clothes of the men, but especially of the women, which were impressive, the tools, the ceremonies in the palaces, the bull pits, the vaulted tombs, the sanctuaries on the summits, and many others still impress those who come into contact with them, either in the palaces or in the museums, which are filled with works of incredible beauty and perfection.

This civilization of the Cretans of the Bronze Age, the Minoan, was the first European civilization on which was based the miracle of the Greek civilization of the next era, which in turn evolved into what ended in European and global culture through the Romans.

We can highlight some important elements that contributed to the development of this culture in this particular historical period as follows:

• Crete's location in the Eastern Mediterranean, but also its geography (large, long, narrow island, with extensive coasts, varied landscapes, large mountains, plains, many caves, etc.).

• The temperate and healthy climate of Crete after the last ice age, an area with four seasons, a very diverse flora (olives, cereals, vines, etc.).

• The characteristics and the psyche of the Cretans of that time (gentle character, restless spirit, industriousness, love of life and nature, etc.), characteristics that experts associate with dolichocephalism (the analyses of the skeletons found from that period assign the Minoans to this anthropological type), are, however, in all likelihood, elements reinforced and developed by the particular conditions of Crete (geographical position, proximity to others, climate, nature, social and cultural conditions, things that are, moreover, interconnected and mutually reinforcing).

These are the most important sites of Minoan Crete

First of all, we should look at what information was available about the Minoan civilization in history. In written form there was only the mention in Homer, about the hundred cities of Crete of the famous king Minos. But Homer was 800 years away from the time before the destruction of the palaces in Crete!

There were also traditions related to religion, to Zeus born and raised in the mountains of Crete, to King Minos, the Labyrinth, the Minotaur, Knossos, etc., which were revisited by many writers from ancient times to the Middle Ages and until the end of the 19th century.

But also in Crete there were traditions about places, toponyms and lost states, the sacred caves and mountains, as well as in many areas in the Aegean, in mainland Greece, in the Italian peninsula, in Sicily, there were places with the names "Minoan". All this preserved the myth of a glorious era in Crete, whose elements were dug out of the earth by explorers and conquerors and began to enrich collections and museums.

Today we know many things. Systematic excavations have been carried out by distinguished scientific archeologists and the map of Minoan, Mycenaean and Classical Crete has been created.

Specifically for Minoan Crete, we know that the most important cities and palaces are located mainly in central and eastern Crete. As criteria for any activity in Minoan Crete, we must consider the geography, the climate, the distances from the sea or from the plains, and the proximity to other outlying areas with settlements.

Key elements that influenced the choice of the location of a city in Crete were the following:

1. Distance from the coasts. The Mediterranean Sea continued to fill with water after the last ice age and the sea level rose, which meant that people avoided living near the coast at that time.

(Note: According to experts, the level of the Mediterranean Sea drops by up to a hundred meters during the Earth's ice ages, which means that with the end of this period, the sea level gradually rises sharply!)

2. The territory of Crete is located on the borders of the lithospheric plates of Africa and Eurasia and is regularly shaken by large and destructive earthquakes, with the result that, apart from temporary damage, the relief on the coasts changes. In other places there is an uplift and in others a subsidence of the coasts.

3. The geographical relief of Crete, especially with regard to the mountain massifs. The mountains of Crete played an important role in the selection of settlements. The long and narrow Crete has three major mountain massifs from east to west and about ten other smaller ones in between. Originally, the mountains were used as dwellings and places of worship, as there are hundreds of caves where the inhabitants of Crete used to stay (shepherds in winter, refugees in times of war). In some caves there are even churches, which are connected to the ancient sanctuaries. But in ancient times, the caves of Crete were not only inhabited and provided clean water, but were also used as mines, because veins of various metals had been discovered and exploited. So it was a matter of practicality for a city or a settlement to be located near a mountain and caves.

4. The proximity to the great civilizations of the Eastern Mediterranean and Egypt, combined with the fact that the activities in Greece and in the West in general were not important according to what we know so far.

Based on the above, the ancient Cretans chose to establish their settlements and cities in mountainous or semi-mountainous areas at altitudes between 200 and 400 meters in the northern part of the island and between 500 and 600 meters on the western and steep side.

The first modern settlers from the 6th or 5th millennium BC, who came from the sea, knew that all invaders would come the same way, and therefore they also avoided the coasts, but also the low plains for settlement. Even today, the villages in Crete are built in places far from the sea, at the roots of the mountains and even hidden from the sight of those who come from the sea (without good intentions).

In general, the rule was: far from the sea, not in a plain, but near a mountain or semi-mountain, near water sources!

But apart from this rule, there was another reason in Crete that influenced the spread of Minoan culture.

This reason was the inhomogeneity of the population between eastern and western Crete, combined with the geographical relief, with the consequence that the important cultural centers developed mainly in the central and eastern parts of the island, since it is very likely that the arrival of people and ideas in Crete was from the east.

Another important feature that influenced the development of people's activities in Crete over time is the climatic conditions. There is a significant difference in climate between eastern and western Crete. Due to the much higher amount of precipitation in western Crete, it is believed that the mountains there were green and very densely forested in ancient times, unlike eastern Crete, where the climate was drier and less humid.

From this it can be seen that the activities of the Minoans in eastern and central Crete are becoming more and more important.

However, systematic and careful excavations were not carried out at all of these sites. On the contrary, since ancient times and perhaps until recently, illegal excavations and looting were carried out in tombs, settlements, sanctuaries, etc., with the result that many important finds disappeared forever in foreign collections and museums without being evaluated and documenting their historical position.

It is one more reason to highlight the Minoan culture, its epoch and its importance for European and world culture by including it in the UNESCO protected monuments.

This will be another trigger to focus on strengthening agencies and structures to promote this very important era of Crete.

The Statue of Poseidon, Which Appears or Disappears Depending on the Sea Level

Poseidon's Dominion: Greek Mythology's Lasting Influence on the Canary Islands

Greece's rich history and mythology have always been a source of pride for its people, often celebrated for their profound impact on global culture and civilization. Among the many tales and deities from ancient Greece, Poseidon, the god of the sea, stands as a testament to this enduring legacy, even extending his influence as far as the Canary Islands in Spain.

On the sun-kissed shores of Melenara Beach, south of Las Palmas, an impressive statue of Poseidon rises from the sea, symbolizing the far-reaching grace and power of this ancient Greek god. This four-meter-high statue, crafted by the talented artist Luis Arencibia, is a remarkable tribute to Poseidon. Perched on a rock about 30 meters from the beach, the statue captures the essence of the god of the sea, rivers, and all bodies of water, holding his iconic trident with a commanding presence.

The statue of Poseidon is not only a testament to Greek mythology but also a captivating sight for visitors. When the sea is calm, the statue stands proudly, fully visible and awe-inspiring against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. However, as the sea becomes turbulent, Poseidon's figure seemingly merges with the waves, creating the illusion that the god himself is approaching the shore. This dynamic interaction between the statue and the sea enhances its mythical allure, making it a unique and enchanting attraction for those who visit Melenara Beach.

The presence of Poseidon's statue in the Canary Islands is a vivid reminder of how Greek mythology continues to inspire and resonate across different cultures. Greece, often hailed as the cradle of civilization, has given birth to countless stories and myths that have transcended time and geography. The choice to honor Poseidon in Spain reflects a deep appreciation for the richness of Greek mythology and its impact on artistic expression.

Over the centuries, Greece has inspired artists worldwide, leading to the creation of various works that celebrate its mythology and heritage. The statue at Melenara Beach is a perfect example of this cross-cultural admiration, blending Spanish artistry with Greek mythological themes. It stands as a symbol of the interconnectedness of human cultures and the shared stories that bind us.

For those who visit the Canary Islands, the statue of Poseidon offers more than just a visual spectacle. It serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting influence of Greek mythology and the pride that Greeks feel for their storied past. This remarkable tribute to Poseidon not only enhances the beauty of Melenara Beach but also reinforces the timeless relevance of Greek culture in today's world.

In conclusion, the statue of Poseidon in the Canary Islands is a beautiful homage to Greek mythology and its enduring legacy. It illustrates how the myths and stories of ancient Greece continue to captivate and inspire people far beyond the borders of Greece itself. As Greece remains a beacon of cultural and historical pride, works like this statue ensure that its mythological heritage will be celebrated and revered for generations to come.

The most expensive Indian series about the conflict between Alexander the Great and Porus

The most expensive television series produced in India is titled "Porus". Porus was an Indian ruler who was defeated by Alexander the Great in the Battle of Hydaspes in 326 BC, and the series focuses on the conflict between these two historical figures.

The series has won several television awards in India and other Asian countries, and is the most expensive production in the history of Indian television, as the filming took place in Malaysia and the budget was around 5 billion Indian rupees, which is about 70 million dollars...! The production company is called "Swastik", but this word is a sacred symbol of the sun for Indians and brings good luck and prosperity. It was also performed in many countries, such as America.

In the series, sometimes we follow the events closely, sometimes they are pure fiction, but they are superbly filmed, have impressive effects and beautiful actors, reminiscent of Bollywood films.

According to the script, M. Alexander's mother is a priestess and witch, and she  gives him the idea of founding a great empire. She also reveals to him that his father is Zeus. Together with his mother they murder Philip, Alexander becomes king of Macedonia and then shows military genius and expands his empire.

However, there are also many inaccuracies about Porus, as the creators of the series try to arouse the interest of Indian patriots by portraying him as the first "nationalist" leader, when in fact Porus was only a king of the Pauravas, one of the peoples of the Punjab, and there is no mention in the historical sources that he had the ambition to unite all Indians. In the end, Alexander the Great defeated Porus in the Battle of Hydaspes in 326 B.C and released him because of his bravery.

However, it cannot be overlooked that the director and scriptwriter of the series, Siddharth Tewari, has brought the series closer to the historical reality as recorded in the ancient literary sources, despite the fictional and fantastic elements. The roles are played by famous artists both from Indian TV and Bollywood.

Watch the trailer of the series released online in Indian language:

Egyptian archaeologists discovered the tomb of a priest dating back more than 4,400 years in Saqqara

On 2018 Egyptian archaeologists discovered the tomb of a priest dating back more than 4,400 years in the pyramid complex of Saqqara south of the capital Cairo.

"Today we are announcing the last discovery of the year 2018, it's a new discovery, it's a private tomb," Antiquities Minister Khaled El Enany told an audience of invited guests on Saturday.

"It is exceptionally well preserved, coloured, with sculpture inside. It belongs to a high official priest ... [and] is more than 4,400 years old," he said.

The tomb belongs to Wahtye, a high priest who served during the fifth dynasty reign of King Neferirkare, the antiquities ministry said.

His tomb is decorated with scenes showing the royal priest alongside his mother, wife and other members of his family, the ministry said.

It also contains more than a dozen niches and 24 colourful statues of the cleric and members of his family, it said.

In recent years, Egypt has unveiled a string of new archaeological finds to international media and diplomats as it seeks to draw more visitors to the country. The country's vital tourism sector has been hit by years of political turmoil since the 2011 uprising against former president Hosni Mubarak.

In November 2018 archaeology officials announced the discovery in Saqqara of seven sarcophagi, some dating back more than 6,000 years, during excavation work started in April by the same archaeological mission.

Three of those tombs contained mummified cats and scarabs.

The Saqqara necropolis south of Cairo is home to the famous Djoser pyramid, a more than 4,600-year-old construction which dominates the site and was Egypt's first stone monument.

The tomb, built by the master architect Imhotep for the Pharoah Djoser, stood 62 metres tall originally and is considered the oldest building in the world built entirely of stone.

Experts Made An Incredible Discovery In Israel That Rewrites What We Know About Civilization

The bronze age city en esur rewrite history of southern levant.

On a dusty plain near the Mediterranean coast of Israel, a team of archaeologists are engaged in a race against time. Soon, a new road will transform this ancient landscape – burying its secrets for generations to come. But first, experts are searching the ground for relics from a bygone age, and what they find will change our understanding of civilization itself.

Archaeologists Open Undiscovered ancient Mummies Buried Under Notre Dame

In recent years, archaeologists have been working to uncover the secrets of the sarcophagi found beneath Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France. The sarcophagi, which contain the remains of several notable figures from the past, including bishops and kings, have been sealed for centuries.

The research into these tombs has revealed new information about the lives and deaths of these individuals, as well as provided insights into the history and architecture of Notre Dame itself.

The study also gives an idea of medieval France's cultural and religious practices. The discovery of these sarcophagi provides a rare glimpse into the past, shedding light on the history of one of the world's most famous landmarks.

In April 2019, a disaster occurred as one of the greatest buildings in Europe was swamped by flames, and the blazes scorched everything, leaving nothing behind except destroyed ruins. You might have already guessed what we're talking about.

The fire at the Paris Notre Dame Cathedral left France and the entire world heartbroken. But when archaeologists investigated the damage inflicted by the fire, they came across some unique things that had been hidden beneath the cathedral for centuries. And these discoveries reveal some shocking truths about history. So what have the archaeologists discovered? And what do these discoveries reveal?

Timur against Bayezid - Battle of Ankara 1402 Documentary

In the following video we will be analyzing the Battle of Ankara as Timur takes on the Ottoman Sultan Bayezid I. This video also features the war against the Mamluks of Egypt. Enjoy!

Timeline of the Rulers of the Ottoman Empire

The Ottoman Empire, a state that ruled a large area around the Eastern Mediterranean for over 600 years. In this video we will take a closer look at those men who have brought the empire to its greatness. The map shows the territory controlled by the ruler at the end of his reign. Enjoy!

Russia's First Invasion of Ukraine - Ukrainian History Documentary

In today’s video about Ukrainian history we will focus on how Ukraine lived between the three empires - Ottoman Sultanate, Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and the tsardom of Muscovy (Russia), and how Russia's first invasion of Ukraine which used the internal problems of the Cossack Hetmanate. Enjoy!

What Was the Diet of a Medieval Peasant?

In today's episode, we take a look at the various food groups and their position within the diet of an average medieval peasant! Enjoy!

Who was the Buddha?

In today’s video we will analyze who the Buddha was. Watch for more and enjoy!

Inside Mont Saint Michel - Medieval Village Normandy France

Mont Saint-Michel, this magical island topped with a medieval skyscraper has been a holy place since the year 708.

Climb its winding cobbled streets, pass age old gauntlets and eateries, all whilst surrounded by the vast sea inside this world heritage site that has stood on these shores for well over 1000 years…

Pilgrims first came to the mound to be hermits, attracted by the tides that rush in so fast, they could cross quickly and be alone here.

In the year 966, its first church opened.

After dark, its enchanting streets take on a whole new atmosphere, wherever you are on the mound, you can look up at its shinning beacon above.

During the Hundred Years War between England and France, the English besieged and blockaded Mont-Saint-Michel three times.

The French had built strong walls in the 13th century, that would enable it to withstand a 30-year long siege by the English.

In 1622 monks had to cope with the arrival of prisoners, imprisoned without trial.

The monks were driven from the abbey in 1790, but the prison wouldn’t close until 1863, when the monument was left in a state if severe dilapidation.

By 1876, the long process of restoration had began and two years later the causeway linking it to mainland was constructed, this was when visitor numbers really began to grow.

Daily Life in Ancient Mesopotamia

Daily life in ancient Mesopotamia cannot be described in the same way one would describe life in ancient Rome or Greece. Mesopotamia was never a single, unified civilization, not even under the Akkadian Empire of Sargon the Great.

Generally speaking, though, from the rise of the cities in c. 4500 BCE to the downfall of Sumer in 1750 BCE, the people of the regions of Mesopotamia did live their lives in similar ways. The civilizations of Mesopotamia placed a great value on the written word. Once writing was invented, c. 3500-3000 BCE, the scribes seem almost obsessed with recording every facet of their cities lives and, because of this, archaeologists and scholars in the present day have a fairly clear understanding of how the people lived and worked.

The American author Thornton Wilder once wrote, “Babylon once had two million people in it, and all we know about `em is the names of the kings and some copies of wheat contracts and the sales of slaves” (Our Town). Wilder was writing fiction, of course, not history, and there was much about Mesopotamian history still unknown at the time he wrote his play; still he was wrong about what the modern world, even the world of his day, knew about the people of Mesopotamia. We actually know a good deal more than just the names of kings and the sales of slaves.

Who were the Hittites? The history of the Hittite Empire explained in 10 minutes

In the annals of ancient history, the Hittites emerge as one of the most influential and enigmatic civilizations. Operating from the heartland of Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), the Hittite Empire not only wielded considerable power but also left an indelible mark on the cultural, political, and military dynamics of the ancient Near East. This article delves deep into the world of the Hittites, shedding light on their origins, their zenith, and their eventual decline.

Origins of the Hittites

Early Beginnings: The origins of the Hittites can be traced back to the early 2nd millennium BCE, with their initial settlements in central Anatolia. Over time, they absorbed and integrated various indigenous cultures and groups, resulting in a unique blend of traditions.

Old Hittite Kingdom: Around 1650 BCE, under the leadership of King Hattusili I, the Hittites began expanding, marking the beginning of what historians often term the 'Old Hittite Kingdom'.

Hittite Highs

Great Kingdom: By the 14th century BCE, under the rule of Suppilulium I, the Hittite Empire reached its zenith, with territories stretching from western Anatolia to northern Syria.

Battles and Diplomacy: The Hittites were renowned warriors, often clashing with neighboring empires like the Egyptians. One of the most famous events is the Battle of Kadesh (circa 1274 BCE) against Pharaoh Ramses II. After the battle, both empires, realizing the futility of prolonged conflict, signed one of the earliest known peace treaties in history.

Religion and Culture: The Hittite pantheon was vast, comprising many deities. Storm gods were particularly revered. Alongside, they adopted and integrated gods from other cultures, showcasing their syncretic religious practices. Their written records, inscribed on clay tablets using cuneiform script, provide valuable insights into their society, laws, and diplomacy.

Decline and Aftermath

Mysterious End: By the late 13th century BCE, the mighty Hittite Empire began to wane. Reasons for their decline are still a matter of debate, with theories ranging from internal strife, economic factors, and invasions by the enigmatic 'Sea Peoples'.

Neo-Hittites: Following the collapse of the Hittite Empire, smaller Neo-Hittite or Syro-Hittite city-states emerged in parts of Anatolia and northern Syria. These states carried forward the legacy of the Hittite culture until they were eventually absorbed by the rising Neo-Assyrian Empire by the end of the 8th century BCE.

Legacy of the Hittites

Linguistic Contribution: The Hittite language, part of the Indo-European language family, has provided scholars with crucial insights into the early evolution of this linguistic group.

Archaeological Treasures: The Hittite capital, Hattusa (near modern-day Boğazkale, Turkey), is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its ruins, including grand temples, fortifications, and libraries, offer a tangible connection to this ancient civilization.

The Hittites, often overshadowed by their contemporaneous civilizations like the Egyptians or the Mesopotamians, played a pivotal role in the geopolitical dynamics of the ancient Near East. Their history, encapsulating grand conquests, sophisticated diplomacy, rich culture, and abrupt decline, stands as a testament to the intricate tapestry of ancient civilizations and the transient nature of empires. As modern archaeology continues to unearth their secrets, the legacy of the Hittites is set to shine brighter in the annals of history.

The Age of Reptiles in Three Acts

Reptiles emerged from the Paleozoic as humble creatures, but in time, they grew to become some of the largest forms of life ever to stomp, swim, and soar across the planet. This Age of Reptiles was a spectacular prehistoric epic, and it all took place in a single era: the Mesozoic.

What Was The Indus Valley/Harappan Civilisation?

In British India in the 1920's odd stone seals kept popping up at ruins near Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro along the Indus river valley. They baffled everyone, with their inscriptions in a never before seen written language. Archaeologists, intrigued by this, started excavating these previously ignored sites.

They soon uncovered a 4,500-year-old civilisation. A civilisation completely absent in the historical record. One of the earliest urban civilizations in human history. It flourished alongside Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and China around 3300-1900BC but was bigger than all of them. A civilisation that built wonders not to gods or kings but to sanitation. A civilisation without war. Made up of massive planned cities built in brick. Masters of bronze and sculpture. They created their own writing system, traded across the vast sea, and possibly invented the world’s first indoor toilets and then vanished for reasons still not understood.

So what was this civilisation in the Indus Valley, what did they achieve, and what does it have to do with rubber duckies? Well let’s find out.

How the Mongols Lost Russia - Medieval History Animated Documentary

In today’s documentary we will be explaining how and why the Mongols lost Russia and the Golden Horde was destroyed. Watch the video to find out more!

Apocalypto and the Warning Signs of Societal Collapse (Film Analysis)

Apocalypto is one of the most unique actions films ever made. In its simplest form, Apocalypto is just another "hero's journey," but Mel Gibson also explores a variety of ideas that make it much more. Apocalypto is about civilization and why it collapses. It shows the audience warning signs to look out for in their own nations, and in this video, we point out what those warning signs are.

Strangest Things Found Underground

In the video below we will be exploring the strangest things found underground. Enjoy!