TELEVISION

Big History of Civilizations

Series: Great Courses
4.4
(37)
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Episodes
36
Rating
TVPG
Year
2016
Language
English
Publisher
The Great Courses

About

Apply a cutting-edge historical approach to the epic story of humanity across time and around the world. Taught by acclaimed Professor Craig G. Benjamin of Grand Valley State University, these 36 sweeping lectures trace the grand story of human civilizations from our emergence as a species, through the agricultural and industrial revolutions, and into the future.

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Episodes

1 to 3 of 36

1. A Tale of Two Ancient Cities

30m

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Jericho and Anau are two of the world's oldest cities, and their stories have much to tell us about the scope of human history. Begin the course by examining what made these cities successful, and how they differed from each other. This starting point will introduce the concept and key themes of Big History.

2. The Rise of Humanity

30m

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Trace the origins of the human species from the emergence of proto-humans 2.5 million years ago to the rise of Homo sapiens from about 200,000 years ago. Professor Benjamin offers perspectives from biology, anthropology, archeology, and linguistics to show what makes the human species unique - and why we have been able to flourish.

3. Foraging in the Old Stone Age

30m

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Although it is often skimmed over in the history books, the Paleolithic Era is the longest time in human history, ranging from 200,000 to 11,000 years ago. Understanding this period is crucial for understanding the human history that follows. See how family dynamics, migration patterns, climate change, and more affected life in this fascinating era.

Extended Details

  • Closed CaptionsEnglish

Artists

Craig G. Benjaminwriter
Craig G. Benjaminactor

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