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What was ancient Greece?

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Quick answer

Ancient Greece was a civilization that flourished around the Mediterranean from roughly 800 BCE, laying foundations for Western philosophy, democracy, science, art, and the Olympic Games. It was a collection of city-states like Athens and Sparta. Made up of independent city-states (Athens, Sparta, and others).

Key things to understand

  1. Made up of independent city-states (Athens, Sparta, and others).
  2. Birthplace of democracy and of philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.
  3. Huge influence on Western science, art, theatre, and politics.
  4. Origin of the Olympic Games.

People also ask

Why is ancient Greece important?
It gave the West democracy, philosophy, foundational science, theatre, and lasting art and architecture.
What were Greek city-states?
Independent self-governing cities like Athens (democracy) and Sparta (military focus).
Who were famous ancient Greeks?
Philosophers Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, plus many scientists, playwrights, and leaders.