1.

Definition:
- Civilization refers to the living condition of people in cities.
- It is characterized by developed religion, writing, city-building, government, and advancements in
science and technology.

2. Four Ancient Civilizations:

a. The Fertile Crescent Civilization:
- Started around 4000 BC and ended in 539 BC.
- Located in present-day Iraq, Syria, Turkey, and Iran.
- The Sumerians created the civilization and invented writing.
- Symbol: Invention of writing (cuneiform, a type of ideograph).

b. The Nile Valley Civilization:

- Existed from around 3500 BC to 305 BC.
- Centered in Egypt along the Nile River.
- The ancient Egyptians developed the civilization.
- Symbol: Civilian government (pharaohs, ministries, government officials (educated people, priests,
scribes, nobles).

c. The Indus Valley Civilization:

- Thrived from around 2600 BC to 1500 BC in present-day Pakistan.
- The Dravidians were responsible for its creation.
- Known for urban planning and well-structured cities.
- Symbol: Urban planning (surrounded by walls, baked bricks of similar sizes and timber, good road
system).

d. The Huanghe Valley Civilization:

- Started around 1600 BC and continues to the present day.
- Located in Shanxi and Henan, China.
- The Shang people were the creators.
- Symbol: A religious system with the worship of Tian Di (Heavenly Emperor) and ancestors
(Divination).

3. Classical Civilizations (800 BC - AD 600):

- Ancient Greek Civilization (800 BC - 146 BC):
- Co-existence of city-states with different forms of government: monarchy 君主政治 (kings),
oligarchy 寡頭政治 (nobles), and democracy 民主政治 (people).
- Prominent city-states: Macedonia (monarchy), Sparta (oligarchy), and Athens (democracy).

- Ancient Roman Civilization (753 BC - AD 476):

- Republican system with elected rulers (election).
- Executive branch led by two consuls, advised by the Senate, elected by all male citizens.
- Legislative branch with voting rights for male citizens.
4. Medieval Civilizations - Islamic Civilization (800 BC - 600 AD):
- Islam originated in Arabia in the 7th century.
- Founded by Prophet Mohammed (Allah’s messenger)
- Arabs became Muslims, and embraced Islam and built a huge empire across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
- Promoted cultural, economic, and intellectual exchanges between Europe and Asia through wars,
trade…