10 Ancient Greek Contributions to Modern Life
The Ancient Greeks were one of the most advanced civilizations of the Ancient World. They created some phenomenal inventions from philosophy to technology to zoology, many of which are still used today.
Take a look at most impressive 10 Ancient Greeks Contributions to Modern Life:
Origins of Modern Mathematics
Modern mathematics has much to thanks from ancient Greek mathematics. From Pythagoras theorem to extensive histories of mathematics written by leading Greek historians, the ancient Greeks greatly valued mathematics and had a huge influence on what we learn in modern mathematics today.
Basis of Modern Geometry
It was the ancient Greeks that decided that specific rules and mathematical truths about geometry must be established. Thales of Miletus, regarded as Father of Geometry, established a number of geometrical axioms and rules in the 6th century BCE. Later come Pythagoras, Euclid, and Archimedes came, whose findings and theories on geometry are still taught in schools today.
Democracy
Modern Western democracy has much of its roots based in ancient Greek politics. The ancient Greeks created the idea of a constitution and in Athens any citizen could speak to the assembly and vote on decisions by simply holding up their hands.
Modern Philosophy
Many of history's greatest philosophers lived during the times of ancient Greece. From Pluto to Socrates to Anaximenes, all of these ancient Greek philosophers are still firm fixtures in modern philosophy classes around the world.
The Olympics
The first modern Olympics may have not begun until 1896 but the Olympics actually began in Ancient Greece. Ancient historical records show that the earliest Olympics took place in 776 BC. Dedicated to the Greek Gods, these sport competitions included chariot racing, running and boxing and prize winners were awarded laurel wreath crowns.
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A Jury
The earliest known form of a jury hails from ancient Greece. During the fifth century BC a jury was created in the ancient Greek city of Athens. During this time a typical jury contained 501 men but for major trials this could go up to several thousand. Once both the defendant and accuser had presented their arguments the jury decided their decision by casting their vote by placing a specific disk in a marked urn.
Historians
Herodotus is widely believed to be "The Father of History" and one of the first known historians. A contemporary of Socrates, he is the first known historian to treat examine and write about history through investigative means. He wrote "The Histories" which details the Greco-Persian Wars. While some of its content has been dismissed as fanciful, much of it has been confirmed as accurate by modern historians.
Practice of Medicine
The earliest recorded practice of medicine is found in ancient Greece. Hippocrates was an ancient Greek physician who is often regarded as the "Father of Western Medicine." One of his most famous works was the "Hippocratic Oath" which brings up ethical considerations and practices that many doctors still use today.
Zoology
Aristotle not only declared that the earth was round, but he is also regarded as the "Father of Zoology." He was the first known person to classify animals and plants. He classified them by grouping them by similar characteristics. These groups were called genera and he further divided these within the genera.
The Alarm Clock
The Ancient Greeks created the earliest form of alarm clock which worked by dispensing pebbles at the set alarm time. Apparently the ancient philosopher Plato used this system to help him get up in time to teach his academic lectures.
These were 10 Ancient Greek Contributions to Modern Life which are still used today.
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