Which country is the oldest in the world? How do states with a history spanning four, five or more millennia change over time? What ancient countries have survived to this day? We will tell you about some of the most ancient states of the planet.
Armenia
The history of this state began in the depths of centuries. According to legend, the founder of Armenia was a hero named Hayk. True, there is no scientific confirmation of the reliability of this myth. But the state is really very ancient. Its history begins around the 12th century BC.
Since then, the name of the country has changed several times. There was a period when there was a union of several kingdoms on its territory, including the following:
- Luwian;
- Hurrian;
- Mushskoe.
Vietnam
This state was founded about five thousand years ago. Legend has it that the Vietnamese are the descendants of a dragon and a fairy. Moreover, this fairy turned into a beautiful bird - probably to please the dragon.
The real history of the country is not so fantastic, but it is still quite unusual. Women played a significant role in it. They led an uprising against the invaders (Chinese) at the beginning of the 1st millennium AD. The Chung sisters raised an army of mostly women. They liberated more than 60 cities from the Chinese. Another popular heroine of Vietnam is the young warrior Chieu. She wore only yellow and rode a war elephant.
Korea
These two states (North Korea and South Korea) are practically not inferior in antiquity to Vietnam. They are like two branches of one tree, the roots of which go back to the distant past.
And, of course, the inhabitants of these countries also have their own legend. According to her, they came from the union of the celestial and the bear. Moreover, the bear fasted for a long time and lived as a recluse in order to take on a human form.
At present, relations between the Koreas are getting warmer. Perhaps we will witness how they will once again merge into a single state.
Japan
It would seem that this country is not so ancient. Its history began in the 1st century AD. But this country has a striking feature: during all this time, much has remained unchanged in it! So, its borders are exactly the same as 2000 years ago.
By the way, the Japanese themselves believe that their history began in the 7th century BC.
Egypt
And, of course, speaking of ancient countries, one cannot fail to mention this state. Egypt is perhaps the most ancient in the world!
True, in terms of traditions, this is far from Japan: over the millennia, a lot has changed here. The changes have affected everything: religion, language, mentality … But amazing monuments of history are an unshakable reminder of the past. They are tacit testimonies to the greatness of a vanished ancient civilization.
China
The Chinese believe that their country is about 5 millennia old. Written sources indicate that China is still somewhat younger. Millennium and a half.
In those early centuries, the neighbors of the Chinese loved to fight. But the Chinese preferred peaceful agriculture. Perhaps that is why they have far outstripped their neighbors in development. So, it was thanks to them that mankind received gunpowder and paper at its disposal.
Greece
All scientists agree that this state is 5 thousand years old. We can say that European civilization was born here. By the way, it was the ancient Greeks who invented democracy. And ancient Greek art today is considered by many as a role model.
Iran
By antiquity, this state is comparable to Greece. It is even slightly older than her. The name of this country has changed several times. Once it was even called like this: the Country of the Aryans.
In the past centuries, the state of Iran was very militant. And his successes in this area were very impressive.
Israel
Yes, this state is also one of the oldest in the world. Some believe that its history began only in the middle of the 20th century. But this is not at all the case. At that time, it was restored as an independent state of Israel. But in fact, its history begins in the II millennium BC.
You can read about many events in the ancient history of this country in the Old Testament.
Each of these countries is worth visiting. Any of them will give you an unforgettable feeling of immersion in the depths of centuries. This, in turn, helps us to better understand the present time and ourselves.
