INTRODUCCIÓN
Have you ever pondered what life was like before the discovery of New World continents like America and Australia? If you’ve ever held an interest in the different history and cultures that existed prior to the explorations and advancements that have shaped our world today, then welcome! This beginner-friendly guide will transport you back to the time referred to as the Old World, a fascinating era that is sure to spark your curiosity.
¿QUÉ ES EL VIEJO MUNDO?
The term ‘Old World’ is primarily used to describe Africa, Europe, and Asia, regarded collectively as the continents known and populated by humans prior to the discovery of the Americas. This distinction serves not just as a geographical reference but also sets a temporal boundary between different eras of human development and history.
Far from being a throwaway term, the Old World is teeming with ancient civilizations, expanding empires, and complex socio-political systems. It’s in this world where the early cradle of civilization began and flourished, including the Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Indus Valley, and Yellow River civilizations. Reigning in these lands were the Romans, Greeks, Persians, and Chinese dynasties.
Think of the tales of Cleopatra, the construction of the Great Wall, the philosophical insights of Socrates, or the military strategies of Caesar, and you’ll find yourself firmly planted in the heart of the Old World.
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO START
Exploring the Old World isn’t as straightforward as opening a vintage globe and spinning it. Consider it a journey through time and place. You might start by focusing on a particular era, such as the Bronze Age, the Roman Empire, or the Tang Dynasty, or perhaps a specific region that interests you, such as the Persian Gulf or the African Savannah.
To unfold the stories of the Old World, consider historical documents, archaeological records, ancient literatures, and scholarly works. Many of these resources are digitally available, lending variety to your quest.
WHAT YOU NEED TO START
Your investigative journey into the Old World particularly needs an inquisitive mind and a genuine love for history. Dive headlong into a wide range of books, documentaries, and historical records. Websites such as Project Gutenberg are great for accessing free classic works on history, while documentary platforms like CuriosityStream offer a multitude of engaging videos on the Old World civilizations.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. START SMALL: Focus on a specific civilization or time period, and expand your knowledge from there.
2. KEEP AN OPEN MIND: Historical accounts can often be biased or incomplete. Keep questioning, explore multiple sources, and refrain from taking anything at face value.
3. TAKE NOTES: Jotting down interesting facts can help you understand and remember what you learn.
4. JOIN A COMMUNITY: Engage with history enthusiasts in forums or social media groups. This can enhance your understanding and give you fresh perspectives.
5. VISIT A MUSEUM: Many museums have extensive collections from the Old World. If you’re lucky enough to live near one, consider frequent visits!
RECURSOS ÚTILES
Websites like the Ancient History Encyclopedia, Project Gutenberg, and CuriosityStream are great starting points. YouTube channels like Historia Civilis provide visual insights into the Old World. Reddit communities such as r/history and r/askhistorians offer knowledge sharing and discussion platforms.
GLOSARIO: EXPLICACIÓN DE TÉRMINOS COMUNES
1. OLD WORLD: Referring collectively to Africa, Europe, and Asia, known and inhabited before the discovery of America.
2. CIVILIZATION: A complex society characterized by urban development, social stratification, and a form of government.
3. ARCHAEOLOGY: The study of the past through the excavation of remains or artifacts.
4. BRONZE AGE: A period in human history marked by the introduction of bronze tools and weapons.
5. EMPIRE: An extensive group of states or countries under a single, supreme authority.
PRÓXIMOS PASOS: ¿QUÉ HACER A PARTIR DE AHORA?
It’s never too late to delve into the myriad realms of the Old World. Start reading your first book or watch a documentary. Visit your local library or museum. Consider joining an online community and start discussions. The exploration of the Old World is a fulfilling journey that offers increased understanding of our shared human history. Remember, exploring history is not just about memorizing facts. It is about understanding the many diverse stories that have shaped our world and continue to influence it today. Good luck on your journey!
