Top 5 Oldest Recorded Civilizations

This ancient civilization originated around 4500-1900 BCE in Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq). It is considered one of the earliest urban civilizations, with many significant contributions to law, governance, and literature. The Sumerians spoke a language that was written in cuneiform script on clay tablets, resulting in over 400 known forms of literature, including the Epic of Gilgamesh. Additionally, they invented the wheel, used irrigation systems for agriculture, and developed a sexagesimal number system.

This civilization thrived along the Nile River from around 3100 BCE to 30 BCE. Known for their impressive architectural achievements, such as the pyramids and temples, Ancient Egyptian society was divided into social classes with strict hierarchies. With over 350 million Egyptians at its peak, the civilization is famous for mummifying bodies with intricate wrappings, often containing gold and precious jewels. The Great Pyramid of Giza, built around 2580 BCE, remains one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

This ancient urban civilization existed from approximately 3300-1300 BCE in present-day Pakistan and northwestern India. Notable for its sophisticated urban planning and water management systems, the Indus Valley Civilization was composed of advanced cities with grid-like street patterns and public baths. Over 1,500 Indus Valley sites have been discovered, with many containing well-preserved archaeological evidence of sophisticated irrigation systems.

This civilization dates back to the Neolithic period around 1600 BCE in the Yellow River valley. The Xia Dynasty marked the beginning of Chinese history as a major cultural power, laying the foundations for Confucianism and Taoism. With over 200 million people living at its peak during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE), Ancient China made significant contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and technology, including paper money and gunpowder.

This Bronze Age civilization existed from around 2600-1900 BCE in the Indus Valley region. Discovered in present-day Pakistan, the Harappans are known for their advanced urban planning, artistry, and craftsmanship. Excavated sites show evidence of well-planned cities with separate quarters for men and women, as well as sophisticated drainage systems and public baths. The Great Bath, a massive ceramic-seated structure at Mohenjo-Daro, is one of the notable examples of Harappan architecture.