Many of the fundamental elements of Western culture first arose more than 2000 years ago in ancient Greece. After conquering the Greeks, the ancient Romans spread Greek ideas throughout their empire, which included much of Europe.
The Greeks or Hellenes (/ ˈhɛliːnz /; Greek: Έλληνες, Éllines [ˈelines]) are an ethnic group and nation native to Greece, Cyprus, southern Albania, Turkey, southern parts of Italy, parts of Egypt, and to a lesser extent, other countries surrounding the Eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea.
Is ancient Greece a country? No, ancient Greece was a civilization. The Greeks had cultural traits, a religion, and a language in common, though they spoke many dialects. The basic political unit was the city-state.
Throughout Greek history, members of other groups were periodically assimilated as Greeks, while Greeks themselves migrated in a worldwide diaspora. The ethnic Greeks now residing outside the Hellenic republic equal those within.
Explore the fascinating history, culture, and achievements of ancient Greece through this educational resource on PBS.
Overview The Greeks made important contributions to philosophy, mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. Literature and theatre was an important aspect of Greek culture and influenced modern drama. The Greeks were known for their sophisticated sculpture and architecture.
Ancient Greece was a hub of trade, philosophy, athletics, politics, and architecture. Understanding how the Ancient Greeks lived can give us unique insights into how Greek ideas continue to influence out own lives today.
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