9781422283912

different types of mathematics. The people prided themselves on producing sophisticated sculpture, architecture, pottery, and other art. At this time, Homer wrote the Iliad and the Odyssey . Greek colonies spread to southern Italy and Sicily. In 507 BC a system of political reforms called demokratia , or “rule by the people,” was introduced. In time, tribes settled into communities in what are now Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Denmark, and Sweden. But in the 8th century, the main area of cultural development in Europe was around the Mediterranean. By the 3rd century BC, Rome had become themajor economic and cultural force in the region. Like Greece, its government had democratic elements. But forms of democracy were to give way to monarchies in the centuries to come.

Western civilization began in Greece.

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