Mesopotamia
The name is pure Greek: the land between two rivers. The region is home to the oldest known civilizations. It was in this complex area that what we call civilizations first emerged. Writing was invented here, as was glass, the way we measure time, and geometric shapes and numerous other developments. Indeed, what we commonly think of as basic to a ‘civilized’ state of society first emerged in the lands between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. http://www.museum.upenn.edu/new/Games/cuneiform.shtmlhttp://archaeology.about.com/od/glass/a/glassmaking.htm http://www.skeptics.com.au/journal/1995/1_calendar.htm#Mesopotamiashapeimage_2_link_0shapeimage_2_link_1shapeimage_2_link_2
 
Egypt
Land of pyramids, golden treasures, mummies - and so much more! While it developed later than the civilizations of lower Mesopotamia, it followed a different path in religion, political authority and history. United by geography and a powerful kingship (pharaoh), Egyptians reveled in life and its bounty.
 
Take a few minutes, and explore the magic.
 
Project idea? Explore the similarities and differences in the architecture, art, religious beliefs, political structures and international relationships. Compare the gender roles, the social structures, the gods.