First Civilizations

Learn how and why early humans set out on the road to civilization.

Episodes

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    Trade

    S1 Ep4 |
    Examine the civilizing effect of trade.
  • Cities: asset-mezzanine-16x9
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    Cities

    S1 Ep3 |
    Investigate why cities were so integral to the rise of civilization.
  • Religion: asset-mezzanine-16x9
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    Religion

    S1 Ep2 |
    Learn why every successful civilization needs a narrative—a shared set of beliefs.
  • War: asset-mezzanine-16x9
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    War

    S1 Ep1 |
    See how war can destroy lives, yet create civilization.

About First Civilizations

Using the latest in archaeology, anthropology and genetics, this series tells the story of where the modern world began. Incorporating studies of artifacts, renowned sites of archaeological interest and interviews with leading experts, it moves around the geographic zones of the world, exploring how and why civilization first sparked into life.

Extras