For thousands of years, humans have created communities that align with certain perceived value systems. From these value systems, great civilizations have been cultivated, developed, and brought into conflict with other cultures. This course examines the rise of civilizations throughout the world, tracing the history of human societies from their beginnings through 1000 C.E. After surveying the prehistoric period and early civilization, the course focuses on the religious, political, and cultural characteristics of key civilizations from around the world. Emphasis will be placed on patterns of civilization, human conflict and interaction, and the development of human thought and expression.