1. Greece [eugrkemp]
The Greek Empire was noted for accomplishments in political science, philosophy, architecture, sculpture, literature and education. Greece’s success was due in part to its geography- the fragmentation of the islands allowed for local experimentation leading to a democratic government (emphasis on local government) and pioneers of the city-state and large urban areas.
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2. Roman Empire [euroman]
The Roman Empire unified European continent as never before or since; advances in land and sea communications, military organization, law and government. Developed of an urban traditions as never before – improvements in infrastructure needed to support economic growth and development. Development of a lingua franca (Latin) that unified the continent. Has not been unified as it was under the Romans. Legacy of ideas that influenced future civilizations. Developed the geographic principle of areal functional specialization – bringing in diverse peoples and cultures within the Roman economic system – specialization of certain goods and services.
Rome’s decline coincided with peoples migrating to (and invading from) central Europe and invasions from Africa and Southwest Asia which commenced the The Dark Ages; a long thousand year period of turmoil and poverty.
The Dark Ages ended when Monarchies strengthened at the expense of feudal societies, marking the beginning of nation-states, discovery of new territories in the world, promotion of mercantilism-accumulation of precious metals through trade agreements and colonial conquests and the beginning of the Agricultural, Industrial and Political Revolutions.
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[The text of the above was written by Scott Girhard, San Antonio College from his online course GEOG 1301 World Geography. Used with permission.]