goldenages - page 1 of 8

1 of 8

DOCUMENT-BASED ESSAY QUESTION

This question is based on the accompanying documents (1-8). The question is

designed to test your ability to work with historical documents. Some of the documents

have been edited for the purposes of the question. As you analyze the documents, take into

account both the source of each document and any point of view that may be presented in

the document.

Historical Context:

Throughout history, different civilizations have contributed to the cultural and intellectual

life of humanity. These periods are often called Golden Ages, as society enjoys not only

cultural and intellectual achievements, but also stable government and a strong economy.

Task:

Using information from the documents and your knowledge of global history, answer the

questions that follow each document in Part A. Your answers to the questions will help

you write the Part B essay, in which you will be asked to:

Adapted from materials provided by the New York State Department of Education

Permission to use this resource is granted only for educational, non-profit use.

Choose two Golden Age civilizations, and for each one:

Describe at least two specific achievements during that civilization’s

Golden Age.

Explain how these achievements had an impact on other civilizations.