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Ancient/Classical History: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
From Locusts to Boils, The 10 Plagues of Egypt
List of the ten plagues of Egypt.
The Right Ways to Use the Abbreviations i.e....
When do you use the common abbreviations i.e., and when do you use e.g., and what do they mean?
Top 10 Greek Heroes of Myth and Legend
Here are the major heroes of Greek legend. Two of them (Odysseus and Achilles) are from the Trojan War. The others were involved in adventures.
What Was Really inside Pandora's Box?
A brief version of the story of Pandora's Box
Major Gods and Goddesses of the World ...
Learn about the world's major gods and goddesses of love, war, childbirth, food, music, mischief, and all sorts of human-seeming foibles.
Pigs: Ancient Weapons of Biological Warfare?
Meet the war pigs! Porkers were some of the most effective tools of ancient warfare.
The Meaning Behind the Sword of Damocles
The Sword of Damocles was described by the Roman orator Cicero in his 'Tusculan Disputations'. Here's my explanation of the proverbial expression.
How Did Hercules Die?
Hercules didn't have an easy life, so you shouldn't be surprised to learn how difficult it was for him to die. Learn about his death and what came next.
5 Summer Beach Reads Set in Antiquity
Looking to dive into the ancient world this summer? Here are five great reads that will transport you from the beach to Babylon!
A List of Ancient Sun Gods and Sun Goddesses
A list of the sun gods from various ancient religions.
What's the Difference Between the Greeks and...
Some basic comparisons between ancient Rome and ancient Greece, more specifically, ancient Athens.
The Dramatic Life of Cleopatra, Egypt's Last...
Queen Cleopatra VII of Egypt was an historical queen and last pharaoh of Egypt whose story has been retold in countless stories, plays, and movies.
The 88 Gods and Goddesses of War
A list of war gods and goddesses from the mythology of the world.
Cleopatra - What We Think the Famous 'Beauty'...
Despite the fame of Cleopatra, there are no images of what she looked like. See how the Egyptians pictured Queen Cleopatra in this photo of her statue.
What's Behind the Ancient Acronym SPQR?
The abbreviation SPQR refers to the Roman senate and the Roman people. Here is a look at the Latin for each of the letters in the abbreviation.
Why Did Rome Fall?
Read about some of the reasons for the Fall of Rome (or the decline of the Roman Empire) and the rationale behind the dates. There are many theories for the fall, some more, some less reasonable. You get to judge which is the best.
Greek and Roman Gods Everyone Should Know
Roman and Greek names for the Olympians and the minor gods and goddesses.
The Spartan King Who Led the 300
Leonidas was a king of Sparta who led a suicide mission against the Persians at Thermopylae during the Persian Wars.
The Many, Many Wives of the Bible's King David
The many wives of King David in the Bible played important roles in the history of Israel. Through their relationships, David's wives brought him political alliances and material wealth, as well as 19 sons and one daughter. Three of David's wives were especially significant to Israel's history. They are Michal, Abigail and Bathsheba.
Classic Myths and Legends You Should Know
Myths and Legends the story of Cupid and Psyche. Page 4.
Which Greek Goddess Are You?
Which Greek Goddess Are You? Take this quiz to determine if you're a goddess of love or war or something
Which Greek Hero Are You?
Take this little quiz to see which major ancient hero you are most like. Just don't take it too seriously.
Most Beautiful Women
Here are my choices for the most beautiful ancient women.
Here's Why These Are the Most Important People...
Here are my selections for the most important names in ancient history. This list excludes people whose existence is disputed by most classical scholars.
A Look at Bathsheba and King David's Romance
Bathsheba was King David's most famous wife because they committed adultery before they were married. David tried to cover up their affair after Bathsheba became pregnant, and David succeeded in getting her husband Uriah killed. Although the child they conceived during their affair died, David and Bathsheba had another son, Solomon, who was David's successor.
Ancient Queens
Here are some of the most famous ancient queens in ancient history.
What Was the Role of Perseus in Greek Mythology?
Perseus was a Greek hero known for the slaying of the Gorgon Medusa, whose head with its snaky locks, turned men to stone.
What's So Interesting about Deborah of the Old...
A look at how the Bible portrays Deborah as a wise and courageous judge of Israel.
Who Were Hercules' Parents?
Who were the parents of Hercules?
Was Cleopatra Really as Beautiful as They Say?
The name Cleopatra Queen of Egypt has often been used to mean a seductive, beautiful woman, but Cleopatra may not have been beautiful at all.
13 Ancient Cultures, and the Gods They Worshipped
List of ancient gods and goddesses by Culture.
15 Translations for Colors in Latin
Words for colors in Latin. Ancient / Classical History.
Hercules: The Basic Facts of the Major Greek...
Hercules is such a popular figure from Greek mythology that you have undoubtedly heard of him or seen him in movies or on the television. If you want to know the basic facts and events of his life, here is the basic information the media uses to portray the demigod.
What Are the Months in the Jewish Calendar?
Jewish months of the Hebrew calendar based on Babylonian month names.
Decide for Yourself: Is Atlantis Real or Fiction?
Atlantis is a story from Plato's Timaeus.
12 Ancient Lunar Luminaries
Gods and goddess of the moons came in male and female forms. An alphabetical list of deities or personifications of the moon.
What Are the Exodus Passages Listing the 10...
These are the 10 Commandments from the King James Version of the book of Exodus chapter 20, along with some comparisons to other versions.
The 5 Worst Roman Emperors
My list of the worst Roman emperors.
Who Said 'The Face That Launched a Thousand...
The Life and Influence of Attila the Hun
A barbarian to the Romans, Attila, a fierce warrior and king of the horse-riding Huns, harassed the Roman Empire during the fifth century and put the fear of god in all the peoples in his way.
What Were the 10 Plagues in the Bible?
Learn the context of the famous 10 plagues in Egypt that led to the Biblical Exodus.
How to Say Happy Birthday in Latin
In Latin, words that mean may it be a happy birthday would convey the message of Happy Birthday.
Table of the Roman Equivalents of Greek Gods-...
Roman and Greek names for the Olympians and the minor gods
Who Are the 7 Archangels?
The names of the seven archangels vary somewhat.
The Story of Cupid and Psyche - Apuleius' The...
English translation of the story of the Marriage of Cupid and Psyche from the Latin Golden Ass or Metamorphosis, by Apuleius.
A Quick History on the Nymphs of Greek Mythology
Names and categories of nymphs in Greek mythology.
Helen and Paris: Their Relationship Started the...
Learn about Helen of Troy, the woman known for starting the Trojan War.
The Greek Alphabet, From Alpha to Omega
The letters of the Greek alphabet.
Veni, Vidi, Vici
Veni, vidi, vici were the words Caesar used to succinctly convey his victory.
The Ancient Origins of the Swastika
Read about the possible origins of an ancient symbol, the swastika.
Ancient History: How Abigail Helped King David
Most scholars think of Abigail as King David's wisest wife. By deflecting David's anger toward her first husband, Nabal, for refusing to give David and his men supplies, Abigail both saved her own household and kept David from a serious tactical error of murdering Nabal. Captivated by her beauty and wisdom, David wastes no time in marrying Abigail when her first husband dies. Abigail and David shared many characteristics that made Abigail the comrade that David needed for success.
Who Was King Tut?
The Egyptian pharaoh, King Tut (Tutankhamen), who is known as the boy king, receives much attention but little is known about him.
Moses: The Baby in the Basket
As a baby, Moses wasn't exposed, but he was stuck in a basket and set adrift amid the bulrushes. Read why and what happened next.
Who's Who: Babylonian Gods and Goddesses
Babylonian Gods and Goddesses. Ancient / Classical History.
Do You Know the 9 Greek Muses?
The nine muses (Calliope, Urania, Euterpe, Thalia, Inspiration, Melpomene, Erato, Mnemosyne, Clio, Terpsichore, and Polymnia), their provinces and attributes.
Rubicon - Crossing the Rubicon
What it means when we say someone, or specifically, Julius Caesar, crossed the Rubicon.
Who Was Moses?
Moses, the recipient of the Ten Commandments in the Bible, and a Hebrew prophet, was the leader of the Hebrew people when they left Egypt and wandered in the wilderness during the Biblical Exodus.
Learn the Real Meaning Behind these Famous...
Latin quotes for various occasions with translations, plus a few Greek quotes.
10 Important Norse Gods and Goddesses
Short notes on individual Norse gods and goddesses in Norse mythology.
Athens' Goat Talent
How did goats play a role in the birth of ancient Greek tragedy?
Krypteia (Cryptia) - Plutarch's Lycurgus on the...
The Spartan educational system included a secret training known as the krypteia or cryptia.
The 7 Romance Languages
Find out why we call these languages romance languages.
Learn 15 of the Most Important Deities in...
Learn the basics on the main gods and goddesses of Ancient Egypt.
A Profile of Xerxes the Great, King of the...
Xerxes was a king of the Medes and Persians, who fought against the Ancient Greeks in the Persian Wars.
What are the Names of the 5 Rivers of Hades?
An answer to the question. Ancient/Classical History.
The 10 Greatest Ancient Military Leaders
List of the greatest warriors in the ancient world.
The 12 Greek Gods You Should Know
Basic information on the Olympians of Greek Mythology.
Who Was Paul of Tarsus?
Paul of Tarsus was a Jew who had Roman citizenship and tried to stamp out Christianity until he had a vision on the Road to Damascus.
Celtic Gods and Goddesses
A list of major Celtic gods and goddesses.
The History Behind 'The 300'
Date and very brief description of the Persian War Battle of Thermopylae at which the Spartans, under Leonidas, fought bravely to their death.
The 6 Major Greek Goddesses
List of the major Greek goddesses in Greek mythology.
The When and Where of Major Events in Ancient...
Time line of major events in the ancient history of the world. Most dates and events on the ancient history timeline are of political importance.
Book of Daniel From the King James Version of...
Etext of the Old Testament Book of Daniel.
A Timeline of the Dynasties of Ancient Egypt
Ancient Egyptian Timeline. Timeline of the dynasties of the pharaohs of Ancient Egypt.
Top 9 Love Goddesses
Here are the top fertility and love goddesses of ancient mythology.
A Quick Summary on the Life and Times of Julius...
Learn a dozen important facts about Julius Caesar. Page 2.
How Did Ancient Romans Keep Clean?
Roman Baths and Hygiene in Ancient Rome. Hygiene in ancient Rome included baths, toiletss, cleansers, access to facilities, and high standards of cleanliness.
Which God Carried the World on His Shoulders?
King David's First Wife, Michal...and Her...
Michal, daughter of King Saul, was David's first wife. The Bible reports that Michal loved David, but the context of the story seems to indicate that her love was not returned by her husband. Michal and David appeared to have been married in a political alliance. When David danced nearly naked before the Ark of the Covenant, Michal's rebuke drew a harsh reply from David. Michal and David had no children.
Why the Death of Attila the Hun Is Such a Mystery
There are so many mysteries of ancient history and the cause of the death of Attila is just one of them.
How Do You Say Thank You in Latin?
: How Do You Say Thank You in Latin? What is the best way to say thank you in Latin? Is it gratias tibi
Don't Know Much About Greek Mythology? Read This
Greek mythology is one of the most fascinating and colorful topics connected with the ancient world. Here is an introduction to the mythology and gods and goddesses who still play a part in today's world.
7 Hills of Rome
Monuments of the seven hills of Ancient Rome.
The Many Vital Contributions Ancient Greeks...
Read about the important inventions attributed to early Greek scientists. This list is in chronological order.
Read the Wisdom of King Solomon
The Biblical passage showing the classical example of the wisdom of Solomon.
What Are the 12 Tribes of Israel?
What are the 12 tribes of Israel?
The Five Ages of Man
Among the creation myths of the Ancient Greeks is the story by Hesiod in his Works and Days about the five ages of man beginning with the Golden Age.
187 Aristotle Quotes on Living Well
A list of Aristotle quotes. Quotations attributed to Aristotle.
What Are the 10 Commandments?
What are the Ten Commandments from the Book of Exodus in the Bible?
Etruscan Gods and Their Roman Counterparts
Gregory Flood's Etruscan Gods and Their Roman Counterparts. Etruscan counterparts of Roman gods and goddesses compiled by Gregory Flood.
How Ancient Greeks Believed the World Was Formed
Despite repeated parental attempts to eat or hide their offspring, the birth of the Olympian gods and goddesses including Zeus and Hera followed the emergence of the titans Cronus and Rhea who sprang from Uranus the sky and Gaia the earth.
Facts You Probably Didn't Know About the Trojan...
A description of the sequence of major events of the Trojan War and Homer's 'Iliad', starting with the theft by Paris of Helen of Troy.
A Guide to Norse Mythology
Background information on Norse mythology. This section is on the Aesir and Vanir gods and goddesses.
10 Pivotal Greek Myths
They don't make hero stories like these anymore. Read up on Trojan War heroes and other Greeks who successfully battled impossible odds.
Is 'First Do No Harm' Really Part of the...
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The 8 Biggest Military Defeats Suffered by Rome
Rome didn't always win. Here are the most devastating blows to the ancient country or, at least, its self-image.
See Art Based on the Odyssey
Homer's Odyssey has inspired impressive artwork. Here are some of the artistic representations of people Odysseus encountered, based on the Odyssey.
How Spartacus Led a Slave Revolt and Defied Rome
The revolt of the slaves led by Spartacus the gladiator put a strain on Rome, but built up the heroic legend about its leader. Learn about the Roman failed attempts to stop the revolt and what actually led to Spartacus' downfall.
A Timeline for the Fall of Rome
A timeline showing a chronological list of only major events leading to the fall of Rome.
When Did the Most Famous Greek Philosophers Live?
Timeline of Greek and Roman Philosophers.
Get to Know the First Chinese Dynasty: Xia...
The Xia Dynasty of ancient China was the first dynasty in Chinese history.
Who Said 'If You Want Peace, Prepare for War'?
Latin quote from Vegetius. Prepare for war and the Latin version of the quote from Vegetius.
Which Was the World's First Empire?
Answer to the question, Ancient/Classical History.
War Goddesses
A list of war goddesses from ancient mythology.
Latin Words in English
Some words come into English unchanged.
Reasons for the Fall of Rome
Common theories or reasons for the fall of rome.
How Tall Was the Great Pyramid?
The tallest of a cluster of three pyramids at Giza, the Great Pyramid has lost some height over the millennia due to erosion. How tall was it originally?
What You Would Have Seen in the Great Roman...
A reconstructed image of the Roman Forum.
Who Was Ashoka the Great?
Ashoka was an important Buddhist king in India in the 3rd century B.C.
The Brave Warrior Women of the Ancient World
Ancient women warriors. Ancient women who led troops into battle: Amazons, Queen Artemisia, Queen Boudicca, Queen Samsi, Queen Tomyris, Trung Sisters, Queen Zenobia.
13 Basic Facts About Alexander the Great
Thirteen facts to know about Alexander the Great. Page 2.
Iliad Characters
A list of the characters in the Iliad.
Who Were the Etruscans?
A look at the possible identity of the Etruscans.
How Did Jews Live During Jesus' Time?
Understanding how the Jews lived in Jesus' time requires reading the New Testament within the context of first-century Judaism and the Roman Empire. Biblical texts hold clues to the influences on Judaism of its religious heritage and Roman occupation.
Who Was Agamemnon?
Description of the Greek leader of the Trojan War, Agamemnon.
How to Write Greek Letters With HTML
If you don't have a font and only want to add a few letters of Greek, here is the code for upper and lower case Greek letters.
Demeter - By Her Brothers Betrayed
Demeter, betrayed by her brothers Zeus, Hades, and Poseidon, loses her daughter Persephone. While Demeter goddess of grain mourns the loss of Persephone, she makes sure all mankind suffers with her.
5 Good Reasons to Study Latin
Do you know why your kids should learn Latin? Here are some of the advantages your children will enjoy if they study Latin.
What's the Significance of Biblical Hebrew Names?
It's important to know the meaning and significance of Biblical and Hebrew names before you give one to your child. Here are resources especially for people in the process of finding a name for their newborn.
Latin Days of the Week
The Latin names for the days of the week.
Why You Should Beware the Ides of March (Or Not)
The Ides of March was just another date on the Roman calendar until the fateful day in 44 B.C. when Julius Caesar was assassinated.
Toga, Toga! 5 Facts About Ancient Greek Clothing
Five facts about ancient Greco-Roman clothing.
Was Alexander the Great a Greek?
A major figure in Greek history, Alexander the Great conquered much of the world, spreading Greek culture from India to Egypt, but the question of whether Alexander the Great was actually Greek continues to spark debate. Here's a look at some arguments.
Was Hannibal Black?
Was Hannibal Black? Ancient/Classical History.
5 Accomplishments of Julius Caesar
Read about five of the deeds and accomplishments of the great Julius Caesar.
Why Did Achilles Kill Hector of Troy?
Hector of Troy. Killed by Achilles, Hector had been the greatest Trojan prince.
These Terms Will Help You Read Ancient History
The Ancient / Classical History glossary is an evolving resource on people and topics in ancient history, mythology and classical literature, mostly with very brief descriptions and biographies.
Do You Know Where Cleopatra Was Originally...
Lear these important to know facts about Cleopatra, queen of ancient Egypt. Page 3.
What Was the World Like During the Roman...
Roman culture includes its architecture and technology, entertainment system, which includes gladiators and Roman theater, its literature, medicine, religion and myth, and philosophy.
What Became of the Ancient Romans - Melting Pot...
Forum member provide their theories on what became of the Ancient Romans and their direct descendants
Caligula "Little Boots"
The Roman Emperor Caligula was one of the Julia-Claudian emperors and is known as one of Rome's most depraved emperors. Page 4.
Deucalion and Pyrrha
The story of Deucalion and Pyrrha is the flood myth of Greek mythology.
What Is the Origin of the Saying: 'Beware of...
The Trojan War had gone on for 10 years. Since both sides had gods on their sides, and Achilles, the greatest of the Greeks, and Hector, the greatest of the Trojans, were dead, the two sides were pretty evenly matched.
Do You Know All 5 of the Greek Underworld Rivers?
List of the rivers of the Underworld.
What Happened When Rome Fell?
The Fall of Rome and the End of the Roman Empire in the west. Articles on the effects of certain emperors and barbarians on the fall of the Rome.
What Did the Ancient Romans Eat?
Do you think the Romans were the original bulimics with a vomitorium in every household? It may surprise you to learn most Romans ate modestly. Learn more about the Romans' foods and their diet.
The Death of Balder
The death of the Norse god Balder and the punishment of Loki.
Profile of the Greek God Apollo
Learn about Apollo, a very popular Greek and Roman god, his passions, gifts to mankind, and association with the sun. Also learn about Apollo's application in modern culture.
Discover the Two Types of Titans in Greek...
Learn about the two generations of the enormous mythological creatures known as Titans.
The Unusual Birth of the Goddess Athena
Athena was the Greek goddess of wisdom also known as Pallas Athena. In ancient Rome, Athena was known as the Roman goddess Minerva.
Why Dionysus Brought the Party with Him
Dionysus is the Greek god of wine and ecstacy.
About the Ancient Area of Greater Syria
The first recorded mention of Greater Syria is in Egyptian annals detailing expeditions to the Syrian coastland to log the cedar, pine, and cypress.
Chemosh - Lord of the Moabites
Chemosh was a god of the Moabites, who were related to the Israelites.
Coins of the 12 Caesars
Thes Suetonius-based list includes Julius Caesar and the first 11 emperors of Rome, from the Julio-Claudians through the Flavians.
What Happened During the Shang Dynasty, and Why...
The Shang Dynasty of ancient China was the first dynasty in Chinese history with both archaeological and documentary (written centuries later) evidence.
Do You Know All of the Kings Who Ruled Over...
Names and dates of the Spartan kings.
How Great Was Constantine?
Constantine the Great of Constantine I was the first Christian emperor of the the Roman Empire.
The Life and Accomplishments of King Nebuchadne...
Nebuchadnezzar is best known for his Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world -- which he may not actually have created and the Captivity of the Hebrews.
The Number 7 in the Bible Is a Source of Good...
Ever wonder where the idea of the number seven as lucky came from? More likely than not, the idea of good luck associated with seven comes from the number 7 in the Bible. The interpretation of scriptures by using numbers is known as
A Quick Biography of Achilles
Achilles was considered the greatest Greek hero of the Trojan War.

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