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.

In Asia, China experienced several periods of achievement, with the Han Period qualifying as a true Golden Age.  Japan also achieved greatness in these areas, under the strong leadership of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

The rise of Islam gave way to an empire stretching across three continents.  Contributions in the areas of math, science, art, and  literature influenced many different peoples, including the African Trading Kingdoms and later, the Europeans during the Renaissance.

In Europe, several civilizations contributed cultural and intellectual achievements.  The Greeks under both Pericles of Athens, and Alexander the Great during the Hellenistic period, excelled in areas such as art, architecture, math, and science.  The Romans enjoyed a 200 year long peace that enabled some of the greatest achievements in human history.   The rebirth of cultural and intellectual life during the Renaissance, and later the Enlightenment, would be strongly influenced by both the Greeks and the Romans.

This site is designed to aid students in reviewing some of the civilizations that added greatly to the cultural and intellectual life of humanity.  This site should be used in preparation for the New York State Regents Exam in Global History and Geography. In addition, students may test their knowledge of the material presented here by accessing multiple-choice questions from past Regents Exams.