Ancient civilizations and cultures spark the modern imagination in so many ways. Thousands of years ago our ancestors around the globe solved immense problems that we today use computers to address. Ancient peoples drained swamps, built cities in remote, desolate locations, paved road systems, and brought order to multitudes of chaotic tribes and clans.
Fans of science fiction and fantasy have long relished the distant, fantastic imagery and motivations of ancient peoples. Hardly a science fiction movie or fantasy television show today can be produced without some reference to ancient civilizations and tribes.
Our fascination with ancient history goes well beyond the crude icons of barbarians and conquerors, however. Modern science traces its roots back to the cunning innovations ancient peoples contrived to satisfy every day needs. Had Archimedes not run naked down the street yelling "Eureka!", we might not today benefit from the hydraulic systems that operate the buildings and vehicles we are so familiar with.
Ancient History Forum
Ancient History: Hart Crane, The Greeks and the Baha'is
Ancient History: Alarich vs. Hannibal
Ancient History: Shakira takes "Ancient History" class in California
Ancient History: Interesting essay: Could the Ancient Greeks Have Created the Scientific Revolution?
Ancient History: History Channel's "Egypt" nominated for an Emmy
Ancient History: HBO's "Rome" earns numerous 59th Emmy nominations
Ancient History: Egypt unveils mummy discovery
