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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Ancient History

Milo of Croton reportedly ate 20 pounds of meat and drank 18 pints of wine a day to maintain his muscular physique.

Estimates say it killed 830,000 people.

Felines served a useful purpose in ancient Egyptian households and were eventually associated with deities.

The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World is a list of remarkable constructions of classical antiquity. Of the original Seven Wonders, only one—the Great Pyramid of Giza—remains intact.

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Julius Caesar’s killers attempted to thwart a dictator. They inadvertently created an emperor.

A cryptic biblical mention is only part of the story behind this 'night demon.'

An anthropologist has spent years investigating reports of ape-like creatures on Flores Island.

From axes to swords to chariots, see the weapons that helped make ancient Egyptian warriors formidable.

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Scientists are uncovering the mystery of this legendary sword metal.

What are the Ides of March? Meaning, history and why it became a bad omen.

The shape-shifting 'water monster' was a powerful symbol in Aztec mythology.

Ancient Greece

Ancient Empires: Alexander and Egypt

Alexander the Great lays the foundation for Egypt in this exclusive scene from Ancient Empires.

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Ancient Greece

Ancient Empires: Alexander in India

Why did Alexander the Great fail in India? Learn more in this exclusive clip from Ancient Empires.

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Ancient Greece

Ancient Empires: Alexander the Great Decimates Persian Forces

The future of Macedon is at stake. See more in this clip from Season 1, Episode 1, "Alexander the Great."

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Ancient Rome

Ancient Empires: Caesar and Spartacus

Two of the most known men in the history of ancient Rome are Gaius Julius Caesar and Spartacus.

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Ancient Rome

Ancient Empires: Caesar as Dictator

Caesar consolidated his power and made himself dictator. Learn more in this exclusive clip from Ancient Empires.

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