HistoryNerd94's definitions

Megaliths

Structures and complexes of very large stones for ceremonial and religious purposes in Neolithic times.

Assemblages of megaliths (meaning "big stones") seem to relate to religious beliefs.

by HistoryNerd94 November 22, 2010

Paleolithic

The period of the Stone Age associated with the evolution of humans. It predates the Neolitic period.

Among the major subdivisions, the Paleolithic (Old Stone Age) lasted until 10,000 years ago.

by HistoryNerd94 November 4, 2010

Amulet

Small charm meant to protect the bearer from evil. Found frequently in archaeological excavations in Mesopotamia and Egypt, amulets reflect the religious practices of the common people.

The survival of many amulets and representations of a host of demons suggest widespread belief in magic—the use of special words and rituals to manipulate the forces of nature.

by HistoryNerd94 December 24, 2010

Babylon

The largest and most important city in Mesopotamia. It achieved particular eminence as the capital of the Amorite King Hammurabi in the eighteenth century B.C.E. and the Neo-Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar in the sixth century B.C.E.

The Babylonian Creation Myth climaxes in a cosmic battle between Marduk, the chief god of Babylon, and the Tiamat, a femal figure who personifies the salt sea.

by HistoryNerd94 December 12, 2010

Foragers

People who support themselves by hunting wild animals and gathering wild edible plants and insects.

Modern foragers in the Kalahari Desert of southern Africa and the Ituri Forest of Central Africa derive the bulk of their day-to-day nourishment from wild vegetable foods.

by HistoryNerd94 November 8, 2010

Culture

Socially transmitted patterns of action and expression. Material culture refers to physical objects, such as dwellings, clothing, tools, and crafts. Culture also includes arts, beliefs, knowledge, and technology.

Learned patterns of action and expression constitute culture.

by HistoryNerd94 September 27, 2010