History 102 with WhatifAltHist's Rudyard Lynch and Austin Padgett cover image

Civilizational Differences

History 102 with WhatifAltHist's Rudyard Lynch and Austin Padgett

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Civilizations Rise and Fall: A Lingering Legacy

The evolution of languages and cultures often accompanies the decline of civilizations, illustrated by the transition from Sumerian to Semitic Babylonian. Sumerian, though not Semitic, continued to be used as a priestly language, reflecting a cultural inheritance despite the linguistic shift. The collapse of agricultural societies led to instability, with once-great cities reduced to mere shadows of their former selves, governed by leaders with dwindling resources. This historical example underscores the cyclical nature of human societies, where demographic changes occur alongside cultural tensions, as evidenced by the Sumerians' frustrations over population replacements and declining fertility rates.

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