The Agricultural Revolution

Around 10,000 BC, humans started shifting from nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyles to settled farming communities, marking the Agricultural Revolution. With the domestication of plants and animals, humans were able to produce food more efficiently and in large quantities, leading to population growth and the formation of civilizations. This event marked the beginning of structured societies and laid the foundation for significant advancements in technology, culture, and politics.

The Birth of Democracy in Athens

In the 5th century BC, the city-state of Athens in Ancient Greece introduced the concept of democracy. Citizens had the right to participate in decision-making processes, introducing a form of governance that valued the collective voice. Although far from the inclusive democracies of today, this radical shift from monarchy and oligarchy has deeply influenced the political landscape of the modern world. The Athenian democracy served as a model for future democratic systems and inspired political and social reformers throughout history.

The Founding of Major Religions

The founding of major religions such as Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam had profound impacts on global culture, politics, and societal norms. These religions, originating between the 6th century BC and the 7th century AD, provided moral frameworks, shaped civilizations, and often influenced or dictated the laws and governance of various societies. The spread of these religions led to the creation of new cultural practices, beliefs, and customs that continue to shape the world today.

The Fall of the Roman Empire

The fall of the Western Roman Empire in AD 476 marked a significant turning point in world history. It brought about major changes in the political, cultural, and economic landscape of Europe, and its impact can still be felt today. This event led to the fragmentation of Europe and the rise of feudalism, which eventually gave way to the modern nation-state system. The fall of the Roman Empire was a complex and multifaceted event, with factors such as military pressure from barbarian tribes, economic instability, and political corruption all playing a role. Its aftermath was characterised by a period of instability and uncertainty, with power struggles and territorial disputes among various factions. However, it also paved the way for new forms of governance and social organisation, with the emergence of feudalism and the eventual rise of modern nation-states.

The Printing Revolution

In the 15th century, Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press, transforming the way information was produced and disseminated. This revolution made books more accessible, promoting literacy, aiding the spread of ideas, and facilitating the scientific and cultural advancements of the Renaissance. The printing press made it possible to share knowledge on a massive scale and contributed to the democratization of information, laying the foundation for the modern information age.

The Discovery of the New World

Christopher Columbus’s voyage in 1492 led to the discovery of the New World by Europeans. This event marked the beginning of centuries of exploration, conquest, and colonization that reshaped the world politically, culturally, and demographically, leading to significant global exchange and conflict. The discovery of the New World led to the introduction of new crops, animals, and diseases to Europe, and the exploitation of resources from the Americas fuelled European economic growth.

The Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution, starting in the late 18th century, dramatically changed the world’s economic structure. New manufacturing processes, the rise of factories, and advancements in technology transformed societies from predominantly agrarian to industrial and capitalist. This period saw significant improvements in living standards but also introduced new social and environmental challenges. The Industrial Revolution led to the development of modern capitalism and laid the groundwork for the globalization of the world economy.

World Wars I and II

World Wars I and II, which occurred in the first half of the 20th century, had a significant impact on the world. These wars changed the global political landscape, leading to the decline of European colonial empires and the rise of the US and USSR as superpowers. The wars triggered technological advancements, reshaped national boundaries, and led to the formation of the United Nations, which aimed to maintain international peace and security. While the World Wars introduced massive destruction and loss of life, they also led to significant social and political changes. For instance, the rise of civil rights movements and the development of new international institutions were some of the notable outcomes of the wars.

The Formation of the United Nations

The United Nations was established in 1945, following the catastrophic events of World War II, to prevent future global conflicts. It has since played a crucial role in promoting international cooperation, human rights, and economic development, marking a significant step towards a global community. The United Nations has been instrumental in maintaining peace and security around the world, providing humanitarian assistance in times of crisis, and promoting sustainable development and human rights. Its efforts have helped to build a more peaceful and just world, and its continued work will be vital in tackling global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.

The Digital Revolution

The Digital Revolution, which began in the late 20th century, has transformed society in countless ways. With the advent of the Internet and digital technology, communication, commerce, education, entertainment, and much more have been reshaped, making the world more interconnected than ever before. In essence, the Digital Revolution has brought about a new era in human history, where we are increasingly reliant on technology for our daily lives, work, and leisure. This ongoing revolution continues to shape the contemporary world, blurring the lines between physical and digital realities and presenting new opportunities and challenges for individuals and societies alike. While the Digital Revolution has brought many benefits, it has also introduced new concerns, such as cybersecurity, privacy, and the digital divide. As we move forward, it will be essential to balance the benefits of digital technology with the need to address these concerns and ensure that everyone has access to the opportunities presented by the digital age.

History is the study of past events, particularly in human affairs. We can learn what happened in the past reading records of the past (like books, newspapers, letters) or by looking at old objects and artefacts (like pottery, tools, human and animal remains).

A historian is somebody who studies history, while an archaeologist is a person who studies the past by looking for the remains and artefacts left by people who lived long time ago.

If you want to know more about the past, you can go to libraries, archives and museums that collect and keep things from the past.

Periods in history

Ancient Egypt:The Egyptian Empire, was a society that began about 3150 BC, and lasted until 20 BC when it was invaded by the Roman Empire.

Ancient Greece:Ancient Greece is called “the birthplace of Western civilisation”. About 2500 years ago, the Greeks created a way of life that other people admired and copied. Athenian democracy is the first known democracy in the world. Also, the Ancient Greeks started the Olympic Games and left new ideas in science, art and philosophy.

The Roman Empire:The Roman Empire was the largest empire of the ancient world. It dates from 27 BC, when Octavian became the Emperor, Augustus. The empire was the third stage of Ancient Rome. Rome was first ruled by Roman kings, then by the Roman Republic.

The Middle Ages:The Middle Ages are a time period in European history, which started around the year 476 CE with the fall of the Western Roman Empire, and continued until around the time Christopher Columbus discovered the New World in 1492.

The Renaissance:The Renaissance is a period in the European history, beginning in about 1400. The Renaissance was seen as a rebirth of studying ancient times and gave humanity many famous artists, writers and philosophers.

The French Revolution:The French Revolution took place between 1789 and 1799, and ended when Napoleon Bonaparte became military dictator for fifteen years.

The early nineteenth century:The Realism and Romanticism of the early 19th century gave way to Impressionism and Post-Impressionism in the latter half of the century, with Paris being the dominant art capital of the world.

Henry, Henry, Henry,

Had so many

Wives that had to die.

Henry, Henry, Henry,

Had so many,

Only one survived.

Six wives in all,

Oh, the things they could do,

If they hadn’t married Henry

That was their downfall.

The first was Catherine by name,

She was from Aragon in Spain,

Oh, poor Kate!

He married Arthur, Henry’s bro

And when he died, loved Henry so

But had to wait.

He took her as her lawful wife

But that caused her a lot of strife,

She couldn’t have a son, you see,

Their only child was Mary!

Henry, Henry, Henry……..

Most infamous was Anne Boleyn

But from the start she couldn’t win

Well, of course!

She was attractive to the king

But wouldn’t love unless a queen

So a divorce!

She promised Henry a male heir

But had Elizabeth with red hair

’I have a little neck’ – she said

Right before they chopped her head.

Henry, Henry, Henry…..

Jane Seymour was the next to wed

Betrothed the day Anne lost her head

Noone did mourn!

She loved the king and tried with might

And soon much to the king’s delight

A son was born!

Prince Edward was a true blessing,

Long awaited by the king

But soon afterwards Jane would die

And poor Henry was left to cry…

Henry, Henry, Henry….

Anna of Cleves was from Germany

Would be the next wife for Henry

She would not last!

A Lutheran princess though she be

He didn’t like her face, you see.

Annulment fast!

He nicknamed her the ’Flanders Mare’

Divorced her without a care

She stayed in England and became

’The King’s Belov’d Sister’ in name.

Henry, Henry, Henry….

Henry would be wed again

To a cousin of Anne Boleyn

Kathryn Howard!

’A rose without a thorn’ – said he

But her affair forced her to be

Sent to the Tower!

Culpeper was her cousin dear

And her love, it so appeared

This was high treason and so Kate

Upon the block did meet her fate.

Henry, Henry, Henry….

And now we sing of Katherine Parr

The most kindly of wives by far

Number six!

Cared for Elizabeth and Ed

And old Henry’s ulcered leg

He was sick!

After the king had passed away

She got remarried right away

Buti n a year she left this earth

Had some trouble giving birth.

Henry, Henry, Henry…

Two Annes

Three Kates

And one precious Jane

But they had to marry Henry

And it sealed their fate!

Now that you’ve listened to the song you probably can answer all the questions below.

1. How many wives did Henry VIII?

2. How many of them survived?

3. Who was the first wife and who was her child?

4. Who was the mother of Elizabeth?

5. Who gave a male heir to the king?

6. Whose nickname was the ’Flanders Mare’?

7. Who had an affair and was sent to the Tower?

8. Who was wife number six?

9. How many Annes did Henry marry?

10. And how many Kates?

Key:

1. Six

2. One

3. Catherine of Aragon, Mary

4. Anne Boleyn

5. Jane Seymour

6. Anna of Cleves

7. Kathryn Howard

8. Katherine Parr

9. Two

10. Three

Napoleon Bonaparte artefacts stolen in Australia

Rare artefacts connected to Napoleon Bonaparte, including a lock of his hair, have been stolen from a museum in Australia, local police say. Police believe thieves broke into The Briars historic homestead, south of Melbourne, through a bathroom window. The collection was assembled by a family with ties to the French emperor.

"The offender/s have jemmied open cabinets inside and stolen numerous priceless antiques," the Victoria state police said in a statement. "The stolen items included a ring and flowers containing Napoleon’s hair, a ribbon inscribed by Napoleon in 1815 and a snuff box," it added. Local reports quoted museum officials as saying that descendants of Englishman Alexander Balcombe, who met Napoleon in exile on St Helena Island, put the collection together.

"Alexander Balcombe settled here [in Australia] in 1846 and sat on Napoleon’s knee as a little boy," museum co-ordinator Steve York told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. "Really they’re priceless, because they can’t be replaced. We’re quite distraught. Irreplaceable," Mr York said of the objects taken.

Police are asking the public for any information regarding the theft. "We think this was a fairly targeted theft," Detective Senior Sergeant Michael Lamb told ABC, adding that it would be difficult to publicly dispose of the artefacts.

source: BBC

artefact – tárgy, műtárgy
a lock of hair – hajfürt
homestead – tanya
to jemmy – felfeszíteni
priceless – felbecsülhetetlen
ribbon  – szalag
to inscribe – ráírni
snuff box – tubákos szelence
descendant – leszármazott
in exile – száműzetésben
distraught – kétségbeesett
irreplaceable – pótolhatatlan
regarding – valamivel kapcsolatban
targeted theft – célzott lopás
to dispose of – eladni, megszabadulni valamitől

Match the synonyms.

answers: 1-c 2-a 3-e 4-b 5-d

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Archaeologists hunting for the remains of Richard III have released the first image of a battle-scarred skull which could be that of the 15th century ruler.

Archaeologists previously said there was strong circumstantial evidence to suggest the bones, exhumed from a car park behind council offices in the city, are those of Richard III but did not want to make any academic decision before the skeleton was subjected to a number of tests.

"The University of Leicester is poised to unlock a 500-year-old mystery by announcing the outcome of our search for King Richard III. Over the past five months, since we announced the discovery, our experts from a range of departments have subjected the human remains found at Grey Friars to rigorous examination."

The skeleton, with a metal arrow in its back and severe trauma to the skull, was exhumed in September during an archaeological dig. It was found in the same part of Grey Friars church where Richard III was recorded to have been buried after his death at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485, the last major act in the Wars of the Roses.

The king was resurrected in Shakespeare's play Richard III, which portrayed him as a tyrannical hunchback with a withered arm. Richard was notorious as the suspected murderer of his two nephews in the Tower of London whose deaths enabled him to accede the throne. His dramatised demise had the king calling out "a horse, a horse, my kingdom for a horse" before he was killed on the battlefield.

Initial examinations showed the bones to be those of an adult male and the remains were said to be in a good condition. The skeleton had a curved spine, consistent with accounts of Richard III's appearance. DNA taken from the skeleton has been analysed and compared with that of Michael Ibsen, a descendant of Richard III's family. Radiocarbon tests and genealogical studies have also taken place.

source:www.huffingtonpost.co.uk

remains – maradványok
battle-scarred – harcban sebesült
ruler – uralkodó
circumstantial evidence – közvetett bizonyíték
to exhume – exhumálni/(ki)hantolni
to subject to – alávetni/kitenni valaminek
to be poised to do something – valamit szándékozik tenni/készül valamit megtenni
outcome – eredmény/kimenetel
rigorous – szigorú/rendkívül alapos
arrow – nyílvessző
severe trauma – súlyos sérülés
archeological dig – régészeti ásatás
act – felvonás/cselekedet
to resurrect – feltámasztani/új életre kelni
to portray – leírni/ábrázolni
tyrannical – zsarnoki
hunchback – púpos
withered – fonnyadt/hervadt/korcs
notorious – hírhedt
to suspect – gyanítani/feltételezni
to enable – lehetővé tenni
to accede to the throne – trónra lépni
demise – elhalálozás/hanyatlás
initial – kezdeti/elsődleges
curved spine – hajlott/görbe gerinc
to be consistent with – megegyezni valamivel
account – beszámoló/elbeszélés
descendant – leszármazott/utód
genealogical – leszármazási/nemzedékrendi