Ancient History
Ancient civilizations laid the foundation for our modern world. From the majestic Egyptian pyramids to the sophisticated cities of the Maya, discover the innovations, cultures and daily life of some of history's earliest and most influential societies.
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For millennia, ancient Egyptian doctors were trailblazers—and evidence detected on skulls suggests its doctors may have even attempted to treat cancer.
The Romans were prodigious builders and expert civil engineers, and their thriving civilization produced advances in technology, culture and architecture that remained unequaled for centuries.
Around A.D. 250, the Maya built flourishing cities. What triggered their decline?
Despite the best efforts of amateur and professional archeologists, the ancient world has retained many of its secrets.
8 Ancient Empires
8 Ancient Empires You’ve Never Heard Of
Grab your fedora and bullwhip as we unearth eight amazing yet obscure ancient empires in this episode of History Countdown.
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Their lives and value were defined almost solely in relation to men: their fathers and husbands. But some women found ways to claim their own power.
Sure, the Roman Empire had that extensive road system. But it helped that early Christians didn't paint themselves as an exclusive club.
The Roman Empire gave rise to the culture, laws, technologies and institutions that continue to define Western civilization.
From axes to swords to chariots, see the weapons that helped make ancient Egyptian warriors formidable.
New discoveries show that Giza's ancient pyramids are still full of surprises.
Felines served a useful purpose in ancient Egyptian households and were eventually associated with deities.
Ancient Egyptians left behind a trove of artifacts that shed light on daily life during the civilization's 3000-year existence.
For millennia, ancient Egyptian doctors were trailblazers—and evidence detected on skulls suggests its doctors may have even attempted to treat cancer.
Ancient Egypt was the preeminent civilization in the Mediterranean world from around 3100 B.C. to its conquest in 332 B.C.
The Byzantine Empire was a powerful nation, led by Justinian and other rulers, that carried the torch of civilization until the fall of its capital city Constantinople.
The Colosseum had a massive retractable awning that helped shield thousands of spectators from Rome’s scorching summer sun.
This ancient language shaped religion, literature and philosophy across South Asia.
Inked-up mummies reveal that, far from a modern phenomenon, humans have been getting tattoos for thousands of years.
The history of chocolate and its creation from cocoa beans can be traced from the xocolatl-loving Olmec, Maya and Aztecs of Mexico to the courts of Europe.
Julius Caesar was a general, politician and scholar who became dictator of ancient Rome until he was assassinated.
Pompeii and Herculaneum were flourishing resorts on the coast of Italy until Mount Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79.
