
Greece (Ancient Greece)
Ancient Greece was a collection of city-states located in the Mediterranean, famously known for its contributions to democracy, philosophy, art, and theater. Between the 8th century BCE and the 4th century BCE, Greeks laid the foundations of Western civilization through advances in politics, science, and literature. Key city-states like Athens and Sparta had distinct cultures—Athens excelled in arts and learning, while Sparta was military-focused. Greek thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle shaped philosophy. The Greeks also created impressive architecture, including temples like the Parthenon, and celebrated athletic competitions such as the Olympic Games. Their achievements continue to influence the modern world.