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Who are the most affected civilizations close to extinction in ancient and prehistoric history?

Margarete Philippson

Hey there,

Great question! When it comes to ancient and prehistoric civilizations, there are several that have been impacted greatly and could be considered close to extinction. Here are some of the most affected civilizations:

1. Mesopotamia: Mesopotamia, which is now modern-day Iraq, was once home to many powerful civilizations like the Babylonians, Sumerians, and Assyrians. However, due to several factors such as wars, invasions, and environmental issues such as droughts, the region's population decreased dramatically, and the cities were abandoned.

2. Maya civilization: The Maya civilization flourished in Mesoamerica from 2000 BCE to the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. However, due to factors like environmental degradation, warfare, and the arrival of Spanish conquerors, the Mayan civilization began to decline and eventually disappeared.

3. Indus Valley Civilization: The Indus Valley Civilization existed between 2600 BCE to 1900 BCE in the northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent. The civilization had a sophisticated urban system with a written language and impressive engineering and architectural feats. However, the civilization disappeared, and historians have yet to discern the exact reasons why.

4. Easter Island civilization: The Easter Island civilization, also known as the Rapa Nui civilization, existed on a small island in the Pacific Ocean from the 12th to the 17th century. The civilization is known for its unique statues and carvings, which still exist on the island today. However, the civilization eventually experienced deforestation, overpopulation, and a lack of outside resources, leading to its downfall.

5. Ancestral Puebloans: The Ancestral Puebloans, also known as the Anasazi, settled in the southwestern United States in the 12th and 13th century. The civilization was known for its impressive clay architecture, intricate pottery, and agricultural techniques. However, the civilization experienced several droughts and food shortages, which led to its eventual decline.

In conclusion, these are just a few of the civilizations that have been impacted greatly and are considered to be close to extinction. While their stories differ, they all suffered from a combination of environmental, social, and economic factors, ultimately leading to their downfall. It's fascinating to study the histories of these civilizations and learn from their mistakes to ensure modern society does not repeat them.