INTRODUCTION
Let’s talk about an intriguing topic called “The Old World”. It has a rich history that draws in people who appreciate languages, cultures, and legacies of the past. If you’re fascinated by our planet’s diverse legacy and want to immerse yourself in an epic journey of learning about it, you’ve come to the right place. This is your beginner-friendly guide to understanding what the Old World is, its history, and why it’s something that’s so impactful today.
WHAT IS THE OLD WORLD?
The term “Old World” is a historical concept that refers to the parts of the world known to Europeans before their discovery of the Americas. This encompasses Africa, Europe, and Asia. When we speak of the Old World, think of deep-seated cultures, complex languages, ancient civilizations, and historical events. It’s where the cradle of human civilization rose, with the Egyptians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans carving out empires. It’s also where the renaissance flourished, and from where explorers set sail, discovering new lands. From a larger perspective, the Old World forms an integral part of our global history and cultural fabric.
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO GET STARTED
Understanding and exploring the Old World begins with research. You can study about different eras, civilizations, and their legacies. Here’s how you can get started:
1. Choose an Era: Depending on your interest, select an era. You could start with ancient Egypt or Greece or jump straight into the Middle Ages of Europe.
2. Research: Research about the era – its major events, lifestyle, and culture. Books, articles, and documentaries can be excellent resources for this.
3. Visit Museums: Museums offer a hands-on encounter with history. They house artifacts and provide information about the societies, cultures, and technologies of that era.
WHAT YOU NEED TO START
To study the Old World, you will need books, articles, documentaries, and an internet connection. Resources like ‘A History of the World in 100 Objects’ by Neil MacGregor or ‘Guns, Germs, and Steel’ by Jared Diamond are insightful. Online platforms like Coursera or Khan Academy offer free courses on world history. Visiting museums and historical sites will add an immersive experience to your theoretical knowledge.
CONSEILS POUR LES GRANDS DÉBUTANTS
1. Pick an Era: Start with an era or civilization that intrigues you.
2. Use Multimedia: Combining videos, books, and field trips caters to different learning styles and deepens understanding.
3. Take Your Time: Learning about history is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time absorbing information and making connections.
4. Join Forums: Being a part of online history forums can provide a comparative analysis, and sharpen your understanding.
5. Keep Notes: Keep track of your learnings for easy reference in the future.
RESSOURCES UTILES
To deepen your understanding of the Old World, resources like HistoryExtra, BBC History Magazine, National Geographic, The History Channel, and Coursera are great platforms. Reddit’s r/history and r/AskHistorians provide invaluable community feedback.
GLOSSARY
Here are some basic terminologies related to studying history:
1. Archaeology: The scientific study of human history and prehistory through the excavation of artifacts and structures.
2. Era: A significant period of time in history.
3. Civilization: A complex society characterized by urban development, social stratification, a form of government, and symbolic systems.
4. Culture: A social system of meaning and custom that is developed by a group of people to assure its adaptation and continuity.
5. Artifacts: An object made by a human being, typically an item of historical or cultural interest.
NEXT STEPS / WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Once you’ve outlined your interests, the next step is to start exploring. Start reading, watching documentaries, and connecting with history enthusiasts online. Visit a museum, learn about archaeological sites, and immerse yourself in the rich and diverse world of human history. It might seem intimidating initially, but remember, every historian started somewhere. Embrace the journey, happy exploring!
