Social Timeline

Settled societies began harvesting/growing grains and other plant life around where the Mesopotamian society would emerge. The developments here led to population growth and city development, expanding and specializing labor.

Coincides with the emergence of Nubian Civilization. This early society was one of the first united societies, and demonstrates the power of agricultural communities in the Fertile Crescent, as well as the specialization of labor.

The Abbasid's dominance between Spain and the Middle East represented the height of Islamic dominance. Their culture was spread all throughout the Mediterranean, and the trade they supported allowed cross-cultural connections and unity in the Islamic world.

Beginning in the Indus Valley, Indian civilization was at first characterized by a lack of discernible government. Cities were very advanced, using running water and technology ahead of their time, showing the ingenuity and power of their society. The Ganges river would later spring up cities by 750 BCE

The Mughal Empire in India was a powerful Muslim entity on the subcontinent, drawing its leaders from the Mongol empire. The rule of people such as Akbar allowed more freedom, especially religiously. Akbar limited the divide between Hindus and Muslims, but this was broken by the ruler Aurangzeb. The Mughal's represented a lasting impression by the Mongol tribes, and their culture had an impact on Indian art and architecture.

Following the finish of British Colonial rule by the Raj in India and Pakistan, the two split up based on Hindu/Muslim dominance. Mahatma Gandhi is credited with leading the Indians on a peaceful show of disobedience to inspire the freedom from rule. This dramatic shift marked a renewal of Indian culture but also inspired many social problems, especially conflict between ethnic, religious, and gender lines.

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Greek society became especially important later during the Renaissance due to its social successes. Unusual equality was present, with slaves having some opportunity and common men having a say in the society and government of Athens.

The Roman Empire was a large Mediterranean civilization that included parts of the Middle East and Africa. It initially existed as a Republic, but later became embroiled in a dictatorship. Its long-lasting and stable society kept Europe's people safe for many years, and its decline was met with great instability and confusion. It established precedents for society and Europeans for many years to come.

A Macedonian leader, Alexander took the Greek cities and formed a large Empire into the Middle East, Africa, and India. This conquest introduced Greek life into far off parts, and played a role in the Bactrian culture as well as the widespread importance of Greek culture in the lives of Asians, Africans, and Middle Easterners.

The Byzantine Empire was formed out of the remains of the Eastern Roman Empire, and retained its culture for many years. Slowly, its society diverged from that, however, and it separated from the Roman Catholic Church. Constantinople was a hub of civilization and culture and one of the most important cities in the world.

Peter the Great took to conquest and change in Russia during his reign. Especially prominent was the treatment of peasants in his new society. The change from serfs was an improvement, but it also bound the peasants to further inequalities such as compulsory taxes and military service, as well as continued forced labor.

The Enlightenment was a period of great philosophy and education. This period changed society and the social strata, affecting the lives of individuals through ideas on freedom and equality.

The Industrial Revolution marked a turning point in the world, further establishing European market dominance and giving them more reason to discriminate against others. It also stratified British society more, putting women in the home and inspiring them to put forth a revolution to change women's rights.

Napoleon Bonaparte ruled Europe as a dictator, but instituted many of the reforms that were a part of the French Revolution. Such ideas were accepted by societies across Europe, and the change to equality was important to many. However, Napoleon's rule was not appreciated.

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