Shay Varga

Dr. David Bokovoy

World History to 1500

13 December 2018

Finding Connections Between Modern Life and Early World History

The inhabitants of modern society in the 21st century are far removed from the ancient

civilizations of early world history. A majority of people today carry alternative values than

those of the past, we have new conveniences and new frustrations in the modern world that make

our lives separated further from early humans. However, as far removed as we are from the past,

we are also connected by past influence and consistencies in human behavior. First, humanity

today is struck by cultural changes in much the same way as civilizations past. There is a

constant progression and dispersion of changes in behavior, language and ideas. Additionally,

our society and government system today are notably inspired by the democratic values held by

Greek civilizations. Finally, we are able to map a consistent trend of human rebellion throughout

the entirety of world history. By establishing a connection with our past, we can better

understand who we are as a species, and who we hope to become in our future.

It is safe to say that the spread of culture from one society to another started with the

invention of writing in the early 3000’s BCE. Writing allowed stories to be shared among diverse

communities and began the spread of new ideas, culture and religion. The development of

culture throughout world history continues to this day. There are also noticeable similarities in

the process by which culture is spread. In the lives of people today, new ideas and information

are shared rapidly internationally and interculturally every day. These stories are shared in the

same way as the beginning of civilization, written language and popular influence. The

connection between modern society and ancient civilizations is seen in the constant growth and
spread of ideas. Through this common spread of culture, both civilizations have experienced

changes in the way we behave. We have seen our languages evolve between generations and

have experienced changing styles of dress, art and social customs. Through the distribution of

culture, our society today has qualities similar to those of the ancient world.

The invention of democracy in ancient Greece shaped modern civilization and formed

connections with our society in ways we can still see today. In the early western world,

democracy ended the monopolization of power by one person. In our society today, ancient

democratic values are one of the main influences of the birth of the United States government

system. Although our government now has remarkable differences from the people of ancient

Greece, there are still vague similarities beside the general idea of democracy. In both societies

there is a version of a popular vote system. More citizens can vote in our nation now more than

ever, and in ancient Greece the selection was even more limited. However, each government has

select groups of people whose vote is valued higher than the majority. Also, while the image of

ancient Greek government meeting seems like an unruly and violent performance, it is easy to

see the similarities in political discussions today. Greek culture has also shaped some of our

society's values. In the third century BCE, Alexander the Great was conquering much of the

western world. He valued Greek culture above all others and created a Hellenistic world based

on mass cultural assimilation. The incredible spread of Hellenism influenced much of our culture

in western civilization today. Aside from the creation of the Olympic games, Hellenism also

inspired new ideas in art, science and philosophy. The discoveries and achievements made

during this time changed humanity’s perception of the world, and we still study and utilize these

concepts today.

In addition to influencing our current government system and philosophies, modern life is

connected to those of ancient civilizations by our consistent and powerful show of rebellion by
civilians and persons of power. Defiance, courage and tenacity are additional distinct qualities

held by the human species through thousands of years of evolution. Throughout world history,

communities and individuals have rebelled against opposing ideas and policies. They have

rebelled against new, unfair rulers and mistreatment of civilians. Slaves have revolted against

their oppressors and changed the lives of those after them. Members of faith have fought for

freedom, independence, and the right to believe in their truth. Modern people are fighting similar

fights for just rule and human rights around the world. Today, civilians of France are revolting

against the taxation policies set by their government and voicing their opposition. In the United

States, in addition to the revolutionizing Civil Rights Movement, there are endless calls for

policy reform and pursuit of equal human rights. Our country is in constant rebellion over social

justice for minorities, mistreatment of immigrants, gun control, climate change, and many others.

Displays of opposition and the fight for a better life are ways that we are connected with people

from the ancient world. The human instinct to seek change is something that is shared with each

generation throughout history.

From a student in the 21st century, there is an obvious separation from the lives of

citizens in ancient civilizations. Today, we have made technological advancements that would be

unthinkable for the people of the early world. We have medical practices that have allowed

humans to live past the life expectancy of past generations. Our people have communication

abilities that allow us to share information instantaneously to every corner of the world. Among

these differences however, there are numerous examples of how our world today is connected

with the past. Humans as a species have always been innovative, ambitious beings. With this

comes the ability to relate to civilizations removed by thousands of years. The connections

between modern society and early world history include, the way that human culture has

constantly evolved and spread across vast distances. The evolution and disbursement of culture
changes the way we think, speak and behave. Also, ancient civilizations have influenced our

society and the way we run our government. Finally, there are consistencies in our desire for

greater change and rebelling against oppressors. These similarities between our world today and

the lives of people in early world history connect us with our past and give a new appreciation

for the people who lived before us.