TIMELINE of Major Events

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MAJOR ONLY: WORLD | RELIGIOUS | PEOPLE | ALL

MINOR & MAJOR: WORLD | RELIGIOUS | PEOPLE | ALL

B.C. | A.D. 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 11th 12th 13th 14th 15th 16th 17th 18th 19th 20th 21st

All Major Events

AdamAccording to Jewish, Christian and Muslim scriptures, Adam was the first human being created by God out of the dust of the earth as the last step of c... more

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c. 10,000 B.C.

Agriculture Develops(c. 10,000 B.C.) Over the course of about 5,000 years, 10 different regions of the Earth independently develop agriculture, the use of land and breedi... more

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c. 3,500 B.C.

Writing Developed(c. 3,500 B.C.) Writing, a medium of human communication representing languages and emotions through signs and symbols, develops independently in 4 di... more

c. 3,500 B.C. Writing, a medium of human communication representing languages and emotions through signs and symbols, develops independently in 4 different areas – Mesopotamia (c. 3,500 B.C.), Egypt(c. 1,550 B.C.) The New Kingdom of Egypt(c. 1,550 B.C.) The New Kingdom of Egypt begins as the Pharaohs of Egypt regain independence and displace the Hyksos. The technical innovations brough... more begins as the Pharaohs of Egypt(c. 1,550 B.C.) The New Kingdom of Egypt begins as the Pharaohs of Egypt regain independence and displace the Hyksos. The technical innovations brough... more regain independence and displace the Hyksos. The technical innovations brough... more (c. 3,100 B.C.), the Indus Valley (c. 2,600 B.C.), and the Yellow River (c. 1,700 B.C.). Please share if you found this post informative.

c. 3,300 B.C.

Bronze Age(c. 3,300 B.C.) The Bronze Age begins in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley. The Bronze Age begins in Europe 100 years later (c. 3,200 B.C.), an... more

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c. 3,300 B.C.

Indus Valley Civilization(c. 3,300 B.C.) The Indus Valley Civilization emerges, extending across the northeast of modern day Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northwest India.

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c. 2,686 B.C.

Egypt, Old Kingdom(c. 2,686 B.C.) The Old Kingdom of Egypt is established, during which many of ancient Egypt’s most well-known achievements were constructed, such as... more

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c. 2,500 B.C.

Phoenicia(c. 2,500 B.C.) Phoenicia, a maritime empire, established along the coasts of modern day Lebanon, Syria, and northern Israel, with its main center of ... more

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c. 2,334 B.C.

Akkadian Empire(c. 2,334 B.C.) The Akkadian Empire, centered in the city of Akkad unifies and governs much of the Mesopotamian region.

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c. 2,181 B.C.

Egypt, Old Kingdom Ends(c. 2,181 B.C.) The Old Kingdom of Egypt collapses after a series of droughts exacerbates the problems of a period in which its economic strength was ... more

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c. 2,154 B.C.

Akkadian Empire Ends(c. 2,154 B.C.) The Akkadian Empire collapses due to its agricultural bases being undermined by droughts and invading forces from the north as well as... more

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c. 2,134 B.C.

Egypt, Kingdom of(c. 2,134 B.C.) The Pharaohs of Egypt reestablish stability and prosperity, giving rise to the Middle Kingdom of Egypt.

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c. 2,070 B.C.

Xia Dynasty (China)(c. 2,070 B.C.) The Xia dynasty possibly rules along the Yellow River in China. Shrouded in mystery, myth, and legend, subsequent Chinese governments ... more

c. 2,070 B.C. The Xia dynasty possibly rules along the Yellow River in China. Shrouded in mystery, myth, and legend, subsequent Chinese governments traced their history to the Xia dynasty. No written records survive from this civilization, but some archeological evidence suggests the Xia dynasty may have been real. Please share if you found this post informative.

c. 2,025 B.C.

Old Assyrian Empire(c. 2,025 B.C.) The city-state of Assur in the northern region of Mesopotamia begins to expand its territory and establishes the Old Assyrian Empire w... more

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c. 2,000 B.C.

Chariot Developed(c. 2,000 B.C.) The spoke-wheeled, horse chariot is developed by Indo-Europeans in the Eurasian Steppes, spreading to Mesopotamia, Egypt, the Indus Va... more

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c. 1800 B.C.

AbrahamAbraham (c. 1800 B.C.) The founding figure of the world’s three monotheistic religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. He is the first person in ... more

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c. 1,792 B.C.

Babylonian Empire(c. 1,792–1,750 B.C.) Hammurabi begins his reign in Babylon, during which time, Babylon goes from being a minor city-state in southern Mesopotamia t... more

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c. 1690 B.C.

Egypt, Kingdom ends(c. 1,690 B.C.) The Middle Kingdom of Egypt comes to an end after a period of decline caused by the economic stresses of an influx of a variety of Sem... more

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c. 1,650 B.C.

Hyksos in Egypt(c. 1,650 B.C.) The Hyksos, another diverse group of Semitic speaking people likely from Canaan, establish control over the Nile Delta and exact tribu... more

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c. 1,600 B.C.

Hittite Empire(c. 1,600 B.C.) Indo-Europeans establish the Hittite civilization centered in Hattusa in modern day Turkey, finding great success in the military use ... more

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c. 1,600 B.C.

Mycenean Greek Civilization(c. 1,600 B.C.) Mycenean Greek Civilization was the first advanced civilization in Greece, with several centers of power. Mycenaean Greece was ruled b... more

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c. 1,600 B.C.

Shang Dynasty (China)(c. 1,600 B.C.) The semi-mythical Xia Dynasty ends, and the Shang Dynasty arises to rule over the Yellow River Valley.

c. 1,600 B.C. The semi-mythical Xia Dynasty ends, and the Shang Dynasty arises to rule over the Yellow River Valley. Please share if you found this post informative.

c. 1,550 B.C.

Egypt(c. 1,550 B.C.) The New Kingdom of Egypt begins as the Pharaohs of Egypt regain independence and displace the Hyksos. The technical innovations brough... more

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c. 1,500 B.C.

Vedic Period of India(c. 1,500 B.C.) The Vedic Period in India begins, an approximately 1000 year period in which the language, culture, and religion of Indo-European migr... more

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c. 1450 B.C.

Mosaic LawThe Law of Moses generally refers to the first five books of the Bible which are traditionally thought to have been authored by Moses. In addition to ... more

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Died c. 1400 B.C.

Moses(Died c. 1400 B.C.) Moses was a Hebrew prophet who led his people out of slavery in Egypt. He instituted the Mosaic Law consisting of both ritual and ... more

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c. 1,393 B.C.

Old Assyrian Empire Ends(c. 1,393 B.C.) The Old Assyrian Empire collapses after losing ground to the Hittite Empire and other outside forces.

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c. 1,300 B.C.

Indus Valley Civilization Ends(c. 1,300 B.C.) The Indus Valley Civilization largely disappears after a long period of gradual decline involving the abandonment of most major urbani... more

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c. 1,274 B.C.

Battle of Kadesh(c. 1,274 B.C.) Ramesses II of the New Kingdom of Egypt battles Muwatalli II of the Hittite Empire to a draw in the Battle of Kadesh, the best documen... more

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c. 1,200 B.C.

Iron Age(c. 1,200 B.C.) The Iron Age begins in the Ancient Near East, the Aegean, and India. The Iron Age would begin later in Italy and the Balkans (c. 1,100... more

c. 1,200 B.C. The Iron Age(c. 1,200 B.C.) The Iron Age(c. 1,200 B.C.) The Iron Age begins in the Ancient Near East, the Aegean, and India. The Iron Age would begin later in Italy and the Balkans (c. 1,100... more begins in the Ancient Near East, the Aegean, and India. The Iron Age(c. 1,200 B.C.) The Iron Age begins in the Ancient Near East, the Aegean, and India. The Iron Age would begin later in Italy and the Balkans (c. 1,100... more would begin later in Italy and the Balkans (c. 1,100... more begins in the Ancient Near East, the Aegean, and India. The Iron Age(c. 1,200 B.C.) The Iron Age(c. 1,200 B.C.) The Iron Age begins in the Ancient Near East, the Aegean, and India. The Iron Age would begin later in Italy and the Balkans (c. 1,100... more begins in the Ancient Near East, the Aegean, and India. The Iron Age(c. 1,200 B.C.) The Iron Age begins in the Ancient Near East, the Aegean, and India. The Iron Age would begin later in Italy and the Balkans (c. 1,100... more would begin later in Italy and the Balkans (c. 1,100... more would begin later in Italy and the Balkans (c. 1,100 B.C.), Eastern Europe (c. 900 B.C.), Central Europe and Great Britain (c. 800…

c. 1,200 B.C.

Bronze Age Collapsec. 1,200 B.C. The Bronze Age Collapse, an approximately 300 year period, was a violent, sudden, and culturally disruptive period in which many civiliz... more

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c. 1,178 B.C

Hittite Empire Ends(c. 1,178 B.C.) The Hittite Empire ends as part of the Bronze Age Collapse.

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c. 1,150 B.C.

Mycenaean Greece Ends(c. 1,150 B.C.) Mycenaean Greece collapses as part of the Bronze Age Collapse, initiating a dark age period in Greece.

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c. 1,150 B.C.

Phoenician Expansion(c. 1,150 B.C.) Phoenicia begins approximately 600 years of sea based expansion, establishing coastal colonies in the Mediterranean as far West as GA.... more

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c. 1,069 B.C.

Egypt, New Kingdom(c. 1,069 B.C.) The New Kingdom of Egypt ends as part of the Bronze Age Collapse, its wealth making it the target of too many enemies, Libyans to its ... more Ends

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c. 1,056 B.C.

Middle Assyrian Empire Ends(c. 1,056 B.C.) The Middle Assyrian Empire succumbs to the pressures of the Bronze Age Collapse as it begins a period of gradual decline, eventually c... more

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c. 1,050 B.C.

Alphabet Developed

c. 1,050 B.C. Phoenicians develop a 22 letter alphabet which spreads through their colonies and trade routes, which is eventually adopted and adapted by the Greeks. Please share if you found this post informative.

c. 1,046 B.C.

Zhou Dynasty (China)(c. 1,046 B.C.) The Shang Dynasty ends after it is defeated in battle, and the Zhou Dynasty begins its rule in China.

c. 1,046 B.C. The Shang Dynasty ends after it is defeated in battle, and the Zhou Dynasty begins its rule in China. Please share if you found this post informative.

c. 1000 B.C.

David(c. 1000 B.C.) David is known for killing the giant Goliath when he was a young shepherd and later when he was king of Israel expanding the territory ... more

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911 B.C.

Neo-Assyrian Empire(911 B.C.) The Neo-Assyrian Empire reasserts Assyrian dominance in northern Mesopotamia, and ultimately expanded further, conquering all of Mesopotami... more

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814 B.C.

Carthage Established(814 B.C.) Phoenician colony of Kart-Hadasht (Carthage) is established in modern day Tunisia.

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c. 800 B.C.

Greek Civilization Reemerges(c. 800 B.C.) Greek civilization reemerges from its dark ages as villages become more urbanized and develop into powerful city-states. These city-stat... more

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c. 650 B.C.

Carthaginian Expansion(c. 650 B.C.) Carthage becomes independent from Phoenicia in the Eastern Mediterranean and asserts its power and control over other Phoenician colonie... more

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626 B.C.

Median Kingdom(626 B.C.) The Median Kingdom arises, breaking away from the eastern reaches of the failing Neo-Assyrian Empire, and eventually stretching from the no... more

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626 B.C.

Neo-Babylonian Empire(626 B.C.) The Neo-Babylonian Empire arises, breaking away from the failing Neo-Assyria Empire and ultimately conquering Mesopotamia, the Levant, and ... more

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c. 615–515 B.C.

Daniel the Prophet(c. 615–515 B.C.) An Old Testament prophet known for surviving being thrown into a den of lions and for interpreting dreams. His prophetic writings ... more

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609 B.C.

Neo-Assyrian Empire Ends(609 B.C.) After a period of approximately 20 years of civil war and unrest in the failing Neo-Assyrian Empire, the final remnants of the Neo-Assyrian... more

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c. 600 B.C.

Second Indian Urbanization(c. 600 B.C.) The Indian subcontinent experiences a new period of urbanization in which new cities arise and the culture and religion further develop ... more

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587 B.C.

Babylonian CaptivityThis phrase is used to describe three events: 1) the captivity of ancient Israel and exile to Babylon as related in the Old Testament; 2) the years wh... more I

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550 B.C.

Achaemenid Empire (Persia)(550 B.C.) The Achaemenid Empire (aka the First Persian Empire) begins as Cyrus the Great rebels against and destroys the Medes, eventually controllin... more

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509 B.C.

Roman Republic(509 B.C.) The Roman Republic is established after an aristocratic coup against the last Roman king.

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499 B.C.

Greco-Persian Wars(499 B.C.) The Greco-Persian Wars begin with the Ionian Revolt, initiating a 50 year period of conflict between the massive Achaemenid Empire and the ... more

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431 B.C.

Peloponnesian War(431 B.C.) The Peloponnesian War, an approximately 25 year conflict between Sparta and Athens resulted in the defeat of Athens and a brief period in w... more

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c. 427–348 B.C.

Plato(c. 427–348 B.C.) Greek philosopher, Socrates’s student, Aristotle’s teacher, and founder of the only rigorously non materialist philosophical t... more

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384 B.C.–322 B.C.

AristotleAristotle (384–322 B.C.) was a greek philosopher, founder of the sciences of logic, physics, and biology, whose writings were a major conceptual res... more

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356–323 B.C.

Alexander the GreatAlexander the Great (356–323 B.C.) was King of Macedon and went on to create one of the largest empires of the ancient world by the time he was thir... more

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338 B.C.

Macedon Unifies Greece(338 B.C.) King Phillip II of Macedon unifies nearly all of the ancient Greek world through the Hellenic League, a federation of Greek states under Ph... more

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336 B.C.

Alexander the Great becomes King

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323 B.C.

Alexander the Great Dies

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321 B.C.

Muaryan Empire (India)(321 B.C.) Chandragupta Maurya establishes the Mauryan Empire which would ultimately expand to include almost the entire Indian subcontinent.

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312 B.C.

Seleucid Empire(312 B.C.) The Seleucid Empire, based in Babylonia, is founded by Seleucus, former general over Alexander’s elite cavalry forces. Seleucus asserted ... more

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306 B.C.

Antigonid Kingdom(306 B.C.) Antigonus, a former general to Alexander, establishes the Antigonid Kingdom in portions of Asia Minor and the Levant.

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306 B.C.

Kingdom of Thrace(306 B.C.) Lysimachus, a former bodyguard to Alexander, establishes a kingdom in Thrace, eventually expanding to control Macedonia and portions of Asi... more

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305 B.C.

Ptolemaic Kingdom (Egypt)(305 B.C.) Ptolemy, a former general to Alexander, establishes the Ptolemaic Kingdom based in Egypt and controlling Libya, portions of the Levant, and... more

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281 B.C.

Kingdom of Thrace Ends(281 B.C.) The Kingdom of Lysimachus falls after he dies in battle against the Seleucid Empire.

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275 B.C.

Roman Domination of Italy(275 B.C.) Rome establishes itself as the unrivaled power in Italy after a period of expansion and defeating an invasion by Pyrrhus (ambitious cousin ... more

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256 B.C.

Qin Dynasty (China)(256 B.C.) The Zhou dynasty ends after a period of fragmentation and its capital is captured by a newer competing kingdom, the Qin.

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247 B.C.

Parthian Empire(247 B.C.) Parthia (a region in the northeast of modern day Iran) gains independence in a rebellion against the Seleucid Empire, eventually becoming t... more

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221 B.C.

Qin Empire (China)(221 B.C.) The Qin dynasty establishes the first Chinese Empire after defeating the Zhou Dynasty and unifying China.

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206 B.C.

Han Empire (China)(206 B.C.) The Qin Empire ends with turmoil and instability after the death of its first Emperor. After a brief but intense conflict, the Han dynasty ... more

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201 B.C.

Roman Domination of Mediterranean(201 B.C.) Rome defeats Carthage in the Second Punic War, an approximately 15 year conflict, in which Carthage sought revenge for the losses sustained... more

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185 B.C.

Mauryan Empire Ends(185 B.C.) The Mauryan Empire falls after a period of weak rulers and the assassination of its final ruler, Brihadratha.

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167–160 B.C.

Maccabean Revolt(167–160 B.C.) A Jewish rebellion against the Seleucid Empire which resulted in an independent Judean state which sought to diminish Hellenistic inf... more

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146 B.C.

Rome Conquers Greece(146 B.C.) Rome fully conquers Greece after approximately 50 years of being drawn into military engagements there.

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c. 130 B.C.

Silk Road(c. 130 B.C.) The Silk Road is established as the Han Dynasty in China as they extend their overland trade routes further west and connect directly to... more

c. 130 B.C. The Silk Road(c. 130 B.C.) The Silk Road(c. 130 B.C.) The Silk Road is established as the Han Dynasty in China as they extend their overland trade routes further west and connect directly to... more is established as the Han Dynasty in China as they extend their overland trade routes further west and connect directly to... more is established as the Han Dynasty in China as they extend their overland trade routes further west and connect directly to trade routes used by the Roman Empire(27 B.C.) After a period of unrest and competing generals jockeying for power, Octavian, the adopted son of Julius Caesar, becomes the first official ... more. Please share if you found this post informative.

63 B.C.

Seleucid Empire Ends(63 B.C.) After a period of decline for approximately 100 years caused by military defeats to the Romans in the west and the Parthians to the east, th... more

312–63 B.C. After a period of decline for approximately 100 years caused by military defeats to the Romans in the west and the Parthians to the east, the remnants of the Seleucid Empire(312 B.C.) The Seleucid Empire(312 B.C.) The Seleucid Empire, based in Babylonia, is founded by Seleucus, former general over Alexander’s elite cavalry forces. Seleucus asserted ... more, based in Babylonia, is founded by Seleucus, former general over Alexander’s elite cavalry forces. Seleucus asserted ... more collapse. Please share if you found this post informative.

50 B.C.

Rome Conquers Gaul(50 B.C.) Julius Caesar conquers Gaul (modern day France and Belgium), setting the stage for his rise to power in Rome.

50 B.C. Julius Caesar conquers Gaul (modern day France and Belgium), setting the stage for his rise to power in Rome. Please share if you found this post informative.

30 B.C.

Ptolemaic Kingdom Ends(30 B.C.) The Ptolemaic Kingdom falls to Rome, its former ally of approximately 150 years, despite Cleopatra VII’s dramatic bid to maintain independ... more

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27 B.C.

Roman Empire(27 B.C.) After a period of unrest and competing generals jockeying for power, Octavian, the adopted son of Julius Caesar, becomes the first official ... more

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c. 20 B.C.–A.D. 50

Philo(c. 20 B.C.–A.D. 50) Jewish philosopher and exegete who used an allegorical method to interpret the scriptures that was influential on ancient Chris... more of Alexandria

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born c. 18 B.C.

MaryMary (born c. 18 B.C.) was a Galilean Jewish woman and mother of Jesus. Christians believe that Jesus was conceived miraculously through the Holy Spir... more

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c. 4 B.C.–A.D. 30-33

Jesus(c. 4 B.C.–A.D. 30-33) Also known as Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus Christ, the Messiah, and Savior of the World. He is the founding figure of Christianit... more

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c. 4 B.C.–A.D. 39

HerodHerod Antipater (c. 4 B.C.–A.D. 39) ruled over Galilee and Perea, the regions of Judea where Jesus was most active in his ministry. Herod imprisoned... more Antipater

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c. 4 B.C.–A.D. 64

Paul(c. 4 B.C.–A.D. 64) Apostle and early Christian missionary, whose letters are the earliest documents contained in the New Testament and thus the fir... more

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c. A.D. 1–65

PeterPeter (c. A.D. 1–65) was a Jewish fisherman, chosen by Jesus to be one of his 12 Apostles. Peter was a critical witness to many events in Jesus’ l... more the Apostle

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1st CENTURY

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c. A.D. 6–100

JohnJohn (c. A.D. 6–100) was a Jewish fisherman, chosen by Jesus to be one of his 12 Apostles, and appears to have developed an especially close bond wi... more the Apostle

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A.D. 15 Dec 37–9 Jun 68

Nero(A.D. 15 Dec 37–9 Jun 68) Nero was the first Roman emperor to deliberately persecute Christians beginning in AD 64 after the great fire in Rome. It ... more

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c. A.D. 30

Crucifixion(A.D. 30) Jesus is crucified.

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A.D. 30

PentecostComes from the Greek word for “fifty,” and refers to the Jewish harvest festival also called the “feast of weeks,” because it was held seven w... more

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c. A.D. 35–99

Clement of Rome(c. A.D. 35–99) He was bishop of Rome from around AD 88 to his death in AD 99. His is one of the few Church fathers who lived during the time of the... more

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A.D. 37–c. A.D. 100

JosephusTitus Flavius Josephus (A.D. 37–c. 100) was a Roman-Jewish scholar and historian whose work focused on Jewish history. He was from an elite family a... more

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c. A.D. 50

Maritime Silk Route(c. A.D. 50) Maritime trade routes connect China, India, and the Roman Empire, establishing a maritime Silk Route.

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c. A.D. 50

Council of Jerusalem(c. A.D. 50) This council was called to resolve a dispute regarding the obligations of the burgeoning numbers of Gentile converts. After hearing from ... more

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A.D. 50–64

Paul’s Epistles(A.D. 50–64) The Apostle Paul writes letters which become the earliest writings recorded in the New Testament.

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A.D. 65

Gospel of Mark(A.D. 65) The earliest date that scholars believe the book of Mark was written, which is generally regarded as the first of the Four Gospels. Some sch... more

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A.D. 70

Jerusalem Temple Destroyed(A.D. 70) The Roman Army destroys the Jerusalem and the temple while quashing the Great Jewish Revolt.

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A.D. 75–95

Gospels of Matthew, Luke & John(A.D. 75–95) The timeframe scholars generally allocate for the composition of the Gospels of Matthew, Luke, and John.

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2nd CENTURY

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fl. early 2nd century

Marcion(A.D. 144) Marcion excommunicated in Rome.

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fl. 2nd century

Montanus(fl. 2nd century) Founder of a “New Prophecy” in Phrygia (in modern Turkey), which advocated stricter moral discipline—for example, no remarriag... more

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c. A.D. 100–165

Justin Martyr(c.A.D 100–165) Born in Palestine early in the 2nd century, Justin was educated as a philosopher and converted to Christianity, retaining many of hi... more

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c. A.D. 120–200

Irenaeus(c. A.D. 120–200) Bishop of Lyon, the most important Christian theologian of the 2nd century; author of a large work, Against Heresies.

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c. A.D. 150

Justin Martyr’s 1st ApologyJustin Martyr writes his First Apology and his Dialogue with Trypho.

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c. A.D. 150–681

Christological Controversy(c. A.D. 150–681) During the 2nd Century disputes began in the Christian Church regarding the nature of Christ and his relation to the Father and Ho... more

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c. A.D. 160–225

Tertullian(c. A.D. 160–225) North African priest and theologian, the first major Latin Christian author. Despite the large number of his writings that have su... more

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c. A.D. 165

Justin Martyr’s 2nd ApologyJustin Martyr writes his Second Apology.

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c. A.D. 185–254

Origen(c. A.D. 185–254) Alexandrian theologian famous for his commentaries and homilies on the scriptures, which established a long-lasting tradition of C... more

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3rd CENTURY

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A.D. 210–14 Sep 258

Cyprian(A.D. 210–14 Sep 258) Bishop of Carthage between 248 and 258 who sparked a controversy when he fled during the Emperor Decian persecution and then l... more

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c. A.D. 215

Sabellius(c. A.D. 215) He was an early Christian theologian who taught that God is indivisible so the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are simply different manifest... more

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A.D. 220

Han Empire Ends(A.D. 220) The Han Dynasty in China ends after a period of internal instability leads to open conflict between competing factions and the relinquishme... more

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A.D. 224

Parthian Empire Ends(A.D. 224) The Parthian Empire falls after prolonged military pressure from Rome to the west and internal strife, ultimately succumbing to a rebellion... more

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A.D. 224

Sassanid Empire(A.D. 224) The rebellion which overthrew the Parthian Empire establishes the Sassanid Empire which quickly expands to fill the territorial space of th... more

A.D. 224–651 The rebellion which overthrew the Parthian Empire(247 B.C.) Parthia (a region in the northeast of modern day Iran) gains independence in a rebellion against the Seleucid Empire(312 B.C.) The Seleucid Empire, based in Babylonia, is founded by Seleucus, former general over Alexander’s elite cavalry forces. Seleucus asserted ... more, eventually becoming t... more establishes the Sassanid Empire(A.D. 224) The rebellion which overthrew the Parthian Empire(247 B.C.) Parthia (a region in the northeast of modern day Iran) gains independence in a rebellion against the Seleucid Empire, eventually becoming t... more establishes the Sassanid Empire(A.D. 224) The rebellion which overthrew the Parthian Empire establishes the Sassanid Empire which quickly expands to fill the territorial space of th... more which quickly expands to fill the territorial space of th... more which quickly expands to fill the territorial space of the Parthian Empire(247 B.C.) Parthia (a region in the northeast of modern day Iran) gains independence in a rebellion against the Seleucid Empire(312 B.C.) The Seleucid Empire, based in Babylonia, is founded by Seleucus, former general over Alexander’s elite cavalry forces. Seleucus asserted ... more, eventually becoming t... more and to compete in…

c. A.D. 256–336

Arius(c. 256-336) Alexandrian presbyter whose teaching on the Trinity was condemned at the Council of Nicaea A.D. 325. (See Arianism and Arian Controversy.... more

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A.D. 263–May 339

Eusebius of Caesarea(A.D. 263–May 339) Eusebius became bishop of Caesarea around A.D. 314 and became one of early Christianity’s foremost scholars, apologist, and His... more

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A.D. 265

Jin Empire (China)(A.D. 265) The Jin Dynasty arises within the kingdom of Wei and proceeds to unite China and Vietnam under its rule, reestablishing an Imperial China.

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c. A.D. 272–337

ConstantineConstantine I (c. A.D. 272–337) was a Western Roman Emperor who, after a series of civil wars, became emperor of the entire Roman Empire. He strengt... more

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c. A.D. 280–355

Donatus(c. A.D. 280–355) Magnus Donatus was the leader of a movement in North Africa that believed clergy who had fallen away needed to be rebaptized in or... more

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A.D. 286

Division of Roman Empire(A.D. 286) The Roman Empire is divided into two administrative bodies each overseen by its own emperor, the west being governed by an emperor in Medio... more

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c. A.D. 293–373

Athanasius(c. A.D. 296–373) Athanasius was a Bishop of Alexandria and was a leading proponent of orthodox trinitarianism in opposition to Arianism. His positi... more

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4th CENTURY

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4th–6th centuries

Donatist Controversyinvolves a controversy arising in Carthage at the beginning of the 4th century and lasted until the 6th century. The dispute centered on the legitimac... more

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A.D. 313

Edict of Milan(A.D. 313) Emperor Constantine I and Emperor Licinius issued the Edict of Milan which expanded on the Edict of Toleration (Edict of Serdica) and grant... more

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A.D. 314

Council of ArlesThe first Council of Arles was held in 314 to deal with the Donatist controversy regarding the right of local churches to reject bishops due to allege... more

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4th Century

Arian ControversyAn extension of Logos subordinational theology advocated by Arius, a 4th century priest in Alexandrian, which asserted that Christ was simply a creati... more

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A.D. 320

Gupta Empire (India)(A.D. 320) The Gupta Empire emerges, eventually covering much of the Indian subcontinent and ushering in a golden age in India.

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A.D. 325

First Council of Nicaea(A.D. 325) The First Council of Nicaea (the first ecumenical council) condemns the teaching of Arius and approves a creed containing the homoousios cl... more

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c. A.D. 330-379

Basil(c. A.D. 330-379) Older brother of Gregory of Nyssa and leader of the Cappadocian Fathers, who advocated a reformulation of Nicene theology that preva... more of Caesarea

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c. A.D. 340 – A.D. 397

AmbroseAurelius Ambrosius (c. A.D. 340–397) was Bishop of Milan, which had by then become the capital of the Western Roman Empire. He had government experi... more

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A.D. 27 Mar 347–30 Sep 420

Jerome(A.D. 27 Mar 347–30 Sep 420) Jerome was a Catholic theologian who is best known for his translation of most of the Bible into Latin. Known as the Vu... more

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A.D. 347–395

TheodosiusTheodosius (A.D. 347–395) was Roman Emperor from A.D. 379 until his death. He was the last emperor to rule over a united Roman Empire, his two sons ... more

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A.D. 354–430

Augustine(A.D. 354-430) Bishop of Hippo in North Africa, the most influential theologian of the West, known especially for his doctrine of grace, including rel... more

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c. A.D. 378–444

CyrilCyril of Alexandria (c. A.D. 378-444) Nestorius opponent, Bishop of Alexandria, dominant figure at the Council of Ephesus 431, known for his Christolo... more of Alexandria

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A.D. 381

Constantinople Creed(A.D. 381) Adopted at the Second Ecumenical Council in Constantinople, the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed expands and elaborates upon the original Ni... more

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A.D. 381

First Council of Constantinople(A.D. 381) The First Council of Constantinople (the second ecumenical council) approves an expanded version of the creed of Nicaea, which is today cal... more

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A.D. 385

Augustine begins writing(A.D. 385) Thirty-one-year-old Augustine converts to Christianity and begins writing Christian theological works.

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5th CENTURY

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A.D. 401–450

Theodosius IITheodosius II (A.D. 401–450) was an Eastern Roman Emperor, and he best known for commissioning a compilation of the laws in a single code, primarily... more

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c. 405 A.D.

VulgateA Latin version of the Bible, composed in the 4th Century AD for use in the Roman Church, and which displaced a plethora of previous competing Latin t... more

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fl. 410–420

Pelagius(fl. A.D. 410–420) British monk, spiritual advisor, and theologian whose teaching gave rise to Pelagianism, the view against which Augustine’s doc... more

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A.D. 410

Rome Sacked(A.D. 410) The Visigoths sack Rome, no longer the capital of the Roman Empire, but still its cultural and spiritual center.

A.D. 410 The VisigothsThe western branch of the GermanicReferring to an Indo-European ethnic group of people originating in northern Europe. The Roman Empire bordered on Germanic lands for centuries and the... more Goths who sacked Rome. They were later granted foederati (allied) status by the Western Roman Empire(27 B.C.) After a period of unrest and competing generals jockeying for power, Octavian, the adopted son of Julius Caesar, becomes the first official ... more, and they esta... more sack Rome, no longer the capital of the Roman Empire(27 B.C.) After a period of unrest and competing generals jockeying for power, Octavian, the adopted son of Julius Caesar, becomes the first official ... more, but still its cultural and spiritual center. Please share if you found this post informative.

A.D. 420

Jin Empire Ends(A.D. 420) The Jin Dynasty ends as Emperor Gong abdicates his throne after Jin territory is fractured by internal strife and rebellion.

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A.D. 451

Council of Chalcedona council held in Chalcedon in A.D. 451 to deal with the Nestorian controversy regarding the nature and incarnation of Christ. Some eastern churches o... more

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Died A.D. 10 Nov 461

Leo the Great(Died A.D. 10 Nov 461) Leo I became pope in A.D. 440 and was instrumental in establishing the duel nature of Christ through the “Tome of Leo” as t... more

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c. A.D. 466–511

ClovisClovis I (c. A.D. 466–511) was a Frankish chieftain who united the Frankish tribes under the rule of one king. He ensured his kingship descended to ... more

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A.D. 477–524

BoethiusAnicius Manlius Severinus Boethius (A.D. 477–524) was a Roman statesman and theologian who came into public service under the Ostrogothic King Theod... more

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c. A.D. 2 Mar 480–21 Mar 547

Benedict(c. A.D. 2 Mar 480–21 Mar 547) also known as Saint Benedict of Nurcia. He is credited with founding modern monasticism through his written rule for ... more

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A.D. 480

Western Roman Empire Ends(A.D. 480) The Western Roman Empire officially ends after the Germanic king, Odoacer, conquered the Italian peninsula and established his own Kingdom ... more

A.D. 480 The Western Roman Empire(27 B.C.) After a period of unrest and competing generals jockeying for power, Octavian, the adopted son of Julius Caesar, becomes the first official ... more officially ends after the GermanicReferring to an Indo-European ethnic group of people originating in northern Europe. The Roman Empire(27 B.C.) After a period of unrest and competing generals jockeying for power, Octavian, the adopted son of Julius Caesar, becomes the first official ... more bordered on GermanicReferring to an Indo-European ethnic group of people originating in northern Europe. The Roman Empire bordered on Germanic lands for centuries and the... more lands for centuries and the... more king, Odoacer, conquered the Italian peninsula and established his own Kingdom of Italy. Please share if you found this post informative.

c. A.D. 482–565

JustinianJustinian I (c. A.D. 482–565) was an Eastern Roman Emperor who sought to reunite the Empire after the collapse of the West. He also had Hagia Sophia... more

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6th CENTURY

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TIMELINE of All Major Events

All Major Events

AdamAccording to Jewish, Christian and Muslim scriptures, Adam was the first human being created by God out of the dust of the earth as the last step of c... more

Agriculture Develops(c. 10,000 B.C.) Over the course of about 5,000 years, 10 different regions of the Earth independently develop agriculture, the use of land and breedi... more

Writing Developed(c. 3,500 B.C.) Writing, a medium of human communication representing languages and emotions through signs and symbols, develops independently in 4 di... more

Bronze Age(c. 3,300 B.C.) The Bronze Age begins in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley. The Bronze Age begins in Europe 100 years later (c. 3,200 B.C.), an... more

Indus Valley Civilization(c. 3,300 B.C.) The Indus Valley Civilization emerges, extending across the northeast of modern day Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northwest India.

Egypt, Old Kingdom(c. 2,686 B.C.) The Old Kingdom of Egypt is established, during which many of ancient Egypt’s most well-known achievements were constructed, such as... more

Phoenicia(c. 2,500 B.C.) Phoenicia, a maritime empire, established along the coasts of modern day Lebanon, Syria, and northern Israel, with its main center of ... more

Akkadian Empire(c. 2,334 B.C.) The Akkadian Empire, centered in the city of Akkad unifies and governs much of the Mesopotamian region.

Egypt, Old Kingdom Ends(c. 2,181 B.C.) The Old Kingdom of Egypt collapses after a series of droughts exacerbates the problems of a period in which its economic strength was ... more

Akkadian Empire Ends(c. 2,154 B.C.) The Akkadian Empire collapses due to its agricultural bases being undermined by droughts and invading forces from the north as well as... more

Egypt, Kingdom of(c. 2,134 B.C.) The Pharaohs of Egypt reestablish stability and prosperity, giving rise to the Middle Kingdom of Egypt.

Xia Dynasty (China)(c. 2,070 B.C.) The Xia dynasty possibly rules along the Yellow River in China. Shrouded in mystery, myth, and legend, subsequent Chinese governments ... more

Old Assyrian Empire(c. 2,025 B.C.) The city-state of Assur in the northern region of Mesopotamia begins to expand its territory and establishes the Old Assyrian Empire w... more

Chariot Developed(c. 2,000 B.C.) The spoke-wheeled, horse chariot is developed by Indo-Europeans in the Eurasian Steppes, spreading to Mesopotamia, Egypt, the Indus Va... more

AbrahamAbraham (c. 1800 B.C.) The founding figure of the world’s three monotheistic religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. He is the first person in ... more

Babylonian Empire(c. 1,792–1,750 B.C.) Hammurabi begins his reign in Babylon, during which time, Babylon goes from being a minor city-state in southern Mesopotamia t... more

Egypt, Kingdom ends(c. 1,690 B.C.) The Middle Kingdom of Egypt comes to an end after a period of decline caused by the economic stresses of an influx of a variety of Sem... more

Hyksos in Egypt(c. 1,650 B.C.) The Hyksos, another diverse group of Semitic speaking people likely from Canaan, establish control over the Nile Delta and exact tribu... more

Hittite Empire(c. 1,600 B.C.) Indo-Europeans establish the Hittite civilization centered in Hattusa in modern day Turkey, finding great success in the military use ... more

Mycenean Greek Civilization(c. 1,600 B.C.) Mycenean Greek Civilization was the first advanced civilization in Greece, with several centers of power. Mycenaean Greece was ruled b... more

Shang Dynasty (China)(c. 1,600 B.C.) The semi-mythical Xia Dynasty ends, and the Shang Dynasty arises to rule over the Yellow River Valley.

Egypt(c. 1,550 B.C.) The New Kingdom of Egypt begins as the Pharaohs of Egypt regain independence and displace the Hyksos. The technical innovations brough... more

Vedic Period of India(c. 1,500 B.C.) The Vedic Period in India begins, an approximately 1000 year period in which the language, culture, and religion of Indo-European migr... more

Mosaic LawThe Law of Moses generally refers to the first five books of the Bible which are traditionally thought to have been authored by Moses. In addition to ... more

Moses(Died c. 1400 B.C.) Moses was a Hebrew prophet who led his people out of slavery in Egypt. He instituted the Mosaic Law consisting of both ritual and ... more

Old Assyrian Empire Ends(c. 1,393 B.C.) The Old Assyrian Empire collapses after losing ground to the Hittite Empire and other outside forces.

Indus Valley Civilization Ends(c. 1,300 B.C.) The Indus Valley Civilization largely disappears after a long period of gradual decline involving the abandonment of most major urbani... more

Battle of Kadesh(c. 1,274 B.C.) Ramesses II of the New Kingdom of Egypt battles Muwatalli II of the Hittite Empire to a draw in the Battle of Kadesh, the best documen... more

Iron Age(c. 1,200 B.C.) The Iron Age begins in the Ancient Near East, the Aegean, and India. The Iron Age would begin later in Italy and the Balkans (c. 1,100... more

Bronze Age Collapsec. 1,200 B.C. The Bronze Age Collapse, an approximately 300 year period, was a violent, sudden, and culturally disruptive period in which many civiliz... more

Hittite Empire Ends(c. 1,178 B.C.) The Hittite Empire ends as part of the Bronze Age Collapse.

Mycenaean Greece Ends(c. 1,150 B.C.) Mycenaean Greece collapses as part of the Bronze Age Collapse, initiating a dark age period in Greece.

Phoenician Expansion(c. 1,150 B.C.) Phoenicia begins approximately 600 years of sea based expansion, establishing coastal colonies in the Mediterranean as far West as GA.... more

Egypt, New Kingdom(c. 1,069 B.C.) The New Kingdom of Egypt ends as part of the Bronze Age Collapse, its wealth making it the target of too many enemies, Libyans to its ... more Ends

Middle Assyrian Empire Ends(c. 1,056 B.C.) The Middle Assyrian Empire succumbs to the pressures of the Bronze Age Collapse as it begins a period of gradual decline, eventually c... more

Alphabet Developed

Zhou Dynasty (China)(c. 1,046 B.C.) The Shang Dynasty ends after it is defeated in battle, and the Zhou Dynasty begins its rule in China.

David(c. 1000 B.C.) David is known for killing the giant Goliath when he was a young shepherd and later when he was king of Israel expanding the territory ... more

Neo-Assyrian Empire(911 B.C.) The Neo-Assyrian Empire reasserts Assyrian dominance in northern Mesopotamia, and ultimately expanded further, conquering all of Mesopotami... more

Carthage Established(814 B.C.) Phoenician colony of Kart-Hadasht (Carthage) is established in modern day Tunisia.

Greek Civilization Reemerges(c. 800 B.C.) Greek civilization reemerges from its dark ages as villages become more urbanized and develop into powerful city-states. These city-stat... more

Carthaginian Expansion(c. 650 B.C.) Carthage becomes independent from Phoenicia in the Eastern Mediterranean and asserts its power and control over other Phoenician colonie... more

Median Kingdom(626 B.C.) The Median Kingdom arises, breaking away from the eastern reaches of the failing Neo-Assyrian Empire, and eventually stretching from the no... more

Neo-Babylonian Empire(626 B.C.) The Neo-Babylonian Empire arises, breaking away from the failing Neo-Assyria Empire and ultimately conquering Mesopotamia, the Levant, and ... more

Daniel the Prophet(c. 615–515 B.C.) An Old Testament prophet known for surviving being thrown into a den of lions and for interpreting dreams. His prophetic writings ... more

Neo-Assyrian Empire Ends(609 B.C.) After a period of approximately 20 years of civil war and unrest in the failing Neo-Assyrian Empire, the final remnants of the Neo-Assyrian... more

Second Indian Urbanization(c. 600 B.C.) The Indian subcontinent experiences a new period of urbanization in which new cities arise and the culture and religion further develop ... more

Babylonian CaptivityThis phrase is used to describe three events: 1) the captivity of ancient Israel and exile to Babylon as related in the Old Testament; 2) the years wh... more I

Achaemenid Empire (Persia)(550 B.C.) The Achaemenid Empire (aka the First Persian Empire) begins as Cyrus the Great rebels against and destroys the Medes, eventually controllin... more

Roman Republic(509 B.C.) The Roman Republic is established after an aristocratic coup against the last Roman king.

Greco-Persian Wars(499 B.C.) The Greco-Persian Wars begin with the Ionian Revolt, initiating a 50 year period of conflict between the massive Achaemenid Empire and the ... more

Peloponnesian War(431 B.C.) The Peloponnesian War, an approximately 25 year conflict between Sparta and Athens resulted in the defeat of Athens and a brief period in w... more

Plato(c. 427–348 B.C.) Greek philosopher, Socrates’s student, Aristotle’s teacher, and founder of the only rigorously non materialist philosophical t... more

AristotleAristotle (384–322 B.C.) was a greek philosopher, founder of the sciences of logic, physics, and biology, whose writings were a major conceptual res... more

Alexander the GreatAlexander the Great (356–323 B.C.) was King of Macedon and went on to create one of the largest empires of the ancient world by the time he was thir... more

Macedon Unifies Greece(338 B.C.) King Phillip II of Macedon unifies nearly all of the ancient Greek world through the Hellenic League, a federation of Greek states under Ph... more

Alexander the Great becomes King

Alexander the Great Dies

Muaryan Empire (India)(321 B.C.) Chandragupta Maurya establishes the Mauryan Empire which would ultimately expand to include almost the entire Indian subcontinent.

Seleucid Empire(312 B.C.) The Seleucid Empire, based in Babylonia, is founded by Seleucus, former general over Alexander’s elite cavalry forces. Seleucus asserted ... more

Antigonid Kingdom(306 B.C.) Antigonus, a former general to Alexander, establishes the Antigonid Kingdom in portions of Asia Minor and the Levant.

Kingdom of Thrace(306 B.C.) Lysimachus, a former bodyguard to Alexander, establishes a kingdom in Thrace, eventually expanding to control Macedonia and portions of Asi... more

Ptolemaic Kingdom (Egypt)(305 B.C.) Ptolemy, a former general to Alexander, establishes the Ptolemaic Kingdom based in Egypt and controlling Libya, portions of the Levant, and... more

Kingdom of Thrace Ends(281 B.C.) The Kingdom of Lysimachus falls after he dies in battle against the Seleucid Empire.

Roman Domination of Italy(275 B.C.) Rome establishes itself as the unrivaled power in Italy after a period of expansion and defeating an invasion by Pyrrhus (ambitious cousin ... more

Qin Dynasty (China)(256 B.C.) The Zhou dynasty ends after a period of fragmentation and its capital is captured by a newer competing kingdom, the Qin.

Parthian Empire(247 B.C.) Parthia (a region in the northeast of modern day Iran) gains independence in a rebellion against the Seleucid Empire, eventually becoming t... more

Qin Empire (China)(221 B.C.) The Qin dynasty establishes the first Chinese Empire after defeating the Zhou Dynasty and unifying China.

Han Empire (China)(206 B.C.) The Qin Empire ends with turmoil and instability after the death of its first Emperor. After a brief but intense conflict, the Han dynasty ... more

Roman Domination of Mediterranean(201 B.C.) Rome defeats Carthage in the Second Punic War, an approximately 15 year conflict, in which Carthage sought revenge for the losses sustained... more

Mauryan Empire Ends(185 B.C.) The Mauryan Empire falls after a period of weak rulers and the assassination of its final ruler, Brihadratha.

Maccabean Revolt(167–160 B.C.) A Jewish rebellion against the Seleucid Empire which resulted in an independent Judean state which sought to diminish Hellenistic inf... more

Rome Conquers Greece(146 B.C.) Rome fully conquers Greece after approximately 50 years of being drawn into military engagements there.

Silk Road(c. 130 B.C.) The Silk Road is established as the Han Dynasty in China as they extend their overland trade routes further west and connect directly to... more

Seleucid Empire Ends(63 B.C.) After a period of decline for approximately 100 years caused by military defeats to the Romans in the west and the Parthians to the east, th... more

Rome Conquers Gaul(50 B.C.) Julius Caesar conquers Gaul (modern day France and Belgium), setting the stage for his rise to power in Rome.

Ptolemaic Kingdom Ends(30 B.C.) The Ptolemaic Kingdom falls to Rome, its former ally of approximately 150 years, despite Cleopatra VII’s dramatic bid to maintain independ... more

Roman Empire(27 B.C.) After a period of unrest and competing generals jockeying for power, Octavian, the adopted son of Julius Caesar, becomes the first official ... more