Classical PeriodThe expansion of empires and

integration of new peoples.

Periodization…up to interpretation

Questions to Consider

Analyze the changes and continuities from the ancient period to the classical period.

Analyze the changes and continuities in the spread of civilizations from 600 BCE to 600 BCE.

Analyze the similarities and differences in the major world religions of the time period.

Analyze the similarities and differences in the rise and fall of empires this period.

Themes to Consider

Political organizationDemographics & MovementTradeGender RolesBelief Systems

Analyze the similarities and differences in two empires during the classical period.

Empires moved to expand and integrate new peoples.

Governments became more complex.

Expansion & Integration

India China

Golden Age & Decline

Han China

Expansion & Integration

Greece Rome

Analyze the changes and continuities in human migration

from 600 BCE to 600CE.

Human Migration: Bantu (1000BCE to 500CE)

Impact of Iron Migration patterns were related to

several important factors. Iron use begins 1500 BCE but its

impact is still felt in the classical age.◦ Population growth◦ Expansion of agriculture◦ Growth of cities◦ Expansion of civilization

Patterns of Settlement: Classical Era

Classical DemographySpread of epidemic disease

◦ Smallpox, Justinian plague, etc.Population decreases dramatically

◦ Europe falls 50% between 200-600 CE◦ Asia’s population falls from 170 to 135 million between 0-

600 CEContributes to the decline of classical empires

Spread of Buddhism & Christianity

Trade is primary mean by which religion spreads.

Christianity emphasizes a missionary thrust.

Analyze the changes and continuities in trade networks

from 600 BCE to 600 CE.

Major Trade Routes

Internal vs. External trade.Role of cities.Role of the environment.

Compare the role of women in two classical

societies.

Women

Commonalities= patriarchies and importance of class/caste.

Analyze the similarities and differences in the major belief

systems that began in the classical period.

The major philosophical systems and religions that began during this period addressed social problems, reflected cultural values and integrated new

peoples into empires.

Hindu temple at Prambanan

Longmen Grottos, China

Jewish Helios, 6th c.

Landscape Painting by Tang Yin

The Crucifixion, 420 CE.

Analyze the similarities and differences in the expansion of

civilization outside of China, India and the Mediterranean.

Olmec, Chavin, MayaJapan

Polynesia Axum/Ethiopia