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Reflection

The portfolio reflection summarizes key leaders and political systems from ancient civilizations discussed in class. Alexander the Great and his expansion of Greece, Augustus and his reforms that brought peace and prosperity to Rome, and Ashoka and his spread of Buddhism in India which unified people are highlighted. The reflection emphasizes that studying history is important for understanding modern politics and societies, and for citizens to make informed decisions, such as in elections. History provides lessons on past strengths and weaknesses that can shape the future.

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745 views

Reflection

The portfolio reflection summarizes key leaders and political systems from ancient civilizations discussed in class. Alexander the Great and his expansion of Greece, Augustus and his reforms that brought peace and prosperity to Rome, and Ashoka and his spread of Buddhism in India which unified people are highlighted. The reflection emphasizes that studying history is important for understanding modern politics and societies, and for citizens to make informed decisions, such as in elections. History provides lessons on past strengths and weaknesses that can shape the future.

Uploaded by

api-326720311
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Julia Anter

History of the Ancient World


Professor Lark
8-10-16

Portfolio Reflection
The most notable part of this class were the exceptional leaders from the ancient
civilizations we learned about. The politics of the ancient societies in this class may have been
the most significant take away and can be a applied by any modern day citizen in daily life.
These prominent leaders shaped the politics we know today and should be referenced in the
study of government which applicable in most modern societies.
Alexander the Great is considered by many to be one of the most successful leaders of
Ancient Greece because he was so successful in spreading Greek culture and expanding the
boundaries of ancient Greece. ("Alexander the Great") Alexander the Great made Greece one of
the largest empires in history and founded several cities that were named after him including
Alexandria in Egypt. Alexander spread Hellenistic culture so much so that aspects of it are found
in what is known of the Byzantine empire and other ancient societies nearby. He also helped the
Greek language circulate and become well known. ("Alexander the Great") McNeil in his article
"Why Study History" writes that the past is "the best available guide for public action." (McNeil)
With this in mind, we can't ignore the strides made by Alexander the Great in formulating such a
monumental empire. Looking at the successes of the past is the best way for us to improve our
own society.
In the discussion of impressive ancient leaders, Augustus of Rome cannot be overlooked.
Augustus After being voted absolute ruler Augustus ended a grueling civil war and gave Rome

Julia Anter
History of the Ancient World
Professor Lark
8-10-16

the peace and prosperity he had promised them. ("Augustus") Augustus was also responsible for
expanding the empire, continuing it to parts of Egypt and Spain. Augustus is remembered for
creating the "diverse society and enormous marketplace in which people across Europe, north
Africa and the Middle East could trade and travel under Romes protection," that is now
remembered and admired as ancient Rome. ("Augustus") In the article "What can History Teach
Us Today," Postma brings to light the idea that history gives the individual their identity but also
helps us to interpret our own environments. (Postma) This illustrates how important it is to study
leaders like Augustus, who shaped early empires, in order to understand politics in our current
society.
Asoka, one of the most distinguished rulers of India gives a clear example of how
religion can be a valuable tool in government. Asoka spread Buddhism throughout India and
strongly supported Buddhist missions in other countries. ("TimeMaps") Asoka was a strong
leader that strived most to better conditions for all his subjects and achieve peace. This was
beneficial to the empire because this style of government promoted tolerance and fostered a
serene environment for its people. The spread of Buddhism unified most people under and single
religion. Under the rule of Asoka, India avoided internal conflict and became one as a nation. In
the article "How History Can Help Us Predict the Next Pope," David Perry exemplifies the
perspective that tradition from centuries ago is still evident in many of our cultures today. (Perry)
Asoka spread of Buddhism plays a key role in India's strong Buddhist population to this day.

Julia Anter
History of the Ancient World
Professor Lark
8-10-16

From the multiple readings about why the past matters I find one takeaway to of the
utmost importance. History is critical for all studies because it allows one to think critically about
historical events and participate in discussions. This year it is especially important to evaluate the
strengths and weaknesses in past political systems because we are on the verge of a very
controversial election. Though the system of politics varies in many societies it is important to
know the basics and the history of it in order to make informed decisions to shape the future.
Learning about these remarkable leaders has made me realize the gravity of the choice I have to
help pick the next leader of the United States. We as a society need to be well-informed in order
to make important decisions moving forward, which includes understanding past mistakes and
triumphs.

Julia Anter
History of the Ancient World
Professor Lark
8-10-16

Bibliography
"Alexander the Great." Wikepedia. N.p., n.d. Web.
"Augustus." PBS. PBS, n.d. Web. 15 Aug. 2016.
McNeill, William H. "Why Study History? (1985)." Why Study History? (1985). N.p., n.d. Web.
15 Aug. 2016.
Perry, David. "How History Can Help Us Predict the Next Pope." The Atlantic. Atlantic Media
Company, n.d. Web. 15 Aug. 2016.
Postma, Michael. "What Can History Teach Us Today?" ASCD. N.p., n.d. Web.
"TimeMaps." Atlas of World History. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Aug. 2016.

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