Ancient Greece (Hellenistic Period)

The Hellenistic Period (approximately 323-30 BCE) followed the conquests of Alexander the Great, leading to a spread of Greek culture across a vast empire that included parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. This era saw the fusion of Greek and Eastern influences, resulting in advancements in art, science, and philosophy. Major centers of learning emerged, such as Alexandria in Egypt, known for its great library. The period also marked the rise of powerful kingdoms and the decline of city-state dominance. The Hellenistic culture emphasized cosmopolitanism and the pursuit of knowledge, shaping the foundations of Western civilization.