The Collapse of Bronze Age Civilizations

John Green discusses the end of civilization in the ancient Near East during the Bronze Age. He explores the interconnectedness of civilizations like Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Hittites, focusing on trade, warfare, and diplomacy. The video delves into the mysterious collapse of these civilizations around 1200 BCE, examining theories such as invasions by sea peoples, earthquakes, and environmental changes. Green draws parallels between the ancient world and today's globalized society, highlighting the potential vulnerabilities of interconnected systems.

What is the main topic of this Crash Course episode?

• The end of the Bronze Age civilization in the ancient Near East

• The rise of the Roman Empire

• The history of the Industrial Revolution

• The impact of World War II on Europe

Which ancient civilization was NOT mentioned as part of the interconnected system in the Bronze Age?

• Mesopotamia

• Egypt

• Anatolia

• Indus Valley

What significant discovery was made by underwater archaeologists?

• The tomb of an Egyptian Pharaoh

• A Roman aqueduct

• Ancient Greek pottery

• A shipwreck with goods from at least seven different states

What was one of the main drivers of economic growth in the late Bronze Age?

• Industrialization

• Military success and conquest

• Agricultural innovation

• Trade with China

How did rulers in the late Bronze Age sometimes end wars?

• By forming alliances with other empires

• By signing peace treaties

• Through diplomatic marriages

• By building walls

What is one theory about the cause of the collapse of the ancient Near Eastern civilization?

• A massive flood

• A volcanic eruption

• Invasion by the sea peoples

• A plague

What evidence suggests that earthquakes might have contributed to the collapse?

• Ancient texts describing tremors

• Walls falling in a particular way

• Fossilized pollen

• Arrowheads found in walls

What environmental factor is believed to have affected the ancient Near East between 1200 and 850 BCE?

• A cooling climate

• A notable drought

• Increased rainfall

• Rising sea levels

What modern concept is used to describe the interconnectedness of the late Bronze Age civilization?

• Industrialization

• Colonialism

• Feudalism

• Globalization

What lesson can we learn from the collapse of the ancient Near Eastern civilization?

• The importance of building strong walls

• The risks of interconnected trade and diplomacy

• The benefits of isolationism

• The need for technological advancement