Module 2 Introduction and Outcomes

Module 2: The Rise of Civilization in the Middle East, Africa, and the Mediterranean

mesopotamia, iraq - sumerian figureThe first mature civilizations of the ancient world, Mesopotamia and Egypt, arose in the Tigris-Euphrates and Nile valleys, respectively. Both were dependent on neighboring river systems, but Mesopotamian civilization and Egyptian civilization differed in significant ways. By 1000 B.C.E., both of these formative civilizations had begun to decline, but they still influenced the development of other smaller civilizations in the Mediterranean littoral.

In this unit, we will examine the emergence of societies in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean and explore how social patterns and political conflicts shaped their evolution. When examining Mesopotamia, we will focus primarily on the emergence of Sumerian society and the Babylonian Empire, while we will focus on the three most important phases of ancient Egypt—the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms. We will also discuss the Minoan civilization in the Mediterranean. 

Time Advisory

This unit will take you 18 hours to complete.

  • Section 2.1 Mesopotamia: 9 hours

  • Section 2.2 Ancient Egypt: 5 hours

  • Section 2.3 Civilization Centers in Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean: 3.5 hours

  • Section 2.4 Module 2 Quiz: 0.5 hours

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will be able to:

  • Identify the cultural origins of early Mesopotamian and Egyptian civilizations.
  • Describe the relationship between the geographical features of the ancient world and developments of early civilizations.
  • Trace the development of Minoan commerce, cities, and political institutions during the Greek Bronze Age.
  • Assess the political, social, and cultural legacies of the early civilizations of the Middle East, Africa, and the Mediterranean.