The best country in history. Great empires of antiquity

Seizing power over the world is the dream of at least half of the villains from comics and superhero blockbusters. Some less bloodthirsty individuals (a controversial assertion, of course) take over new lands in the old-fashioned way: send dreamers or adventurers to scout, and then take territory from others. However, sometimes (okay, that's very rare here) the conquerors offer mutually beneficial cooperation and peaceful coexistence. In the modern world, no one has taken the liberty of leading a new empire (underground and criminal lands do not count), but back in the middle of the twentieth century, no one thought that the Age of Empires had come to an end. Let's start in 500 BC and follow the milestones in the history of 25 of the most ambitious empires on our planet. For ease of understanding, the selected dates indicate the peak of the state's development. The superpowers of the 20th century were not included in the list because they did not call themselves "empires."

Achaemenid Empire - 500 BC

The Persians, so much disliked by the Spartans, did a lot of good

At number 18 on the charts of the largest empires, the Achaemenid Empire (or the Persian Empire at number one) is already impressive. At the zenith of power, in 550 BC, the Achaemenid territory reaches an area of ​​3.5 million square kilometers. Under their rule were the lands of almost all modern states of the Middle East and part modern Russia... No less surprising is the fact that under Cyrus the Great, architecture and culture developed rapidly in the empire, roads and post offices were built everywhere. Progress is commendable. And every self-respecting ruler did the same.

Empire of Alexander the Great - 323 BC

Great conquest of the great Alexander

Alexander the Great created a state that overthrew the Achaemenid Empire from the pedestal of power (hello to Sparta) and completed the construction of a powerful Hellenistic union, glorifying the ancient Greek civilization for centuries, along with Aristotle and mass orgies. At the zenith of power, the Macedonian Empire spreads over 3.5% of the land, making it the 21st largest in the history of mankind (the losing Persians still surpassed Alexander, but this did not help them much).

Mauryan Empire - 250 BC

Would you like imperialism in Indian style?

The death of Alexander the Great came as a complete surprise to his comrades-in-arms, mired in a squabble over pieces of the empire. At this time, the distant lands were left to themselves, which did not miss the opportunity to take advantage of the local rulers: India and the nearest territories were captured by the Mauryan empire, which as a result became the most powerful state formation on the Indian subcontinent. Ruled by the wise and calculating Ashoka the Great, the Mauryan Empire occupied about 3 million square kilometers and was the 23rd largest empire in the history of human development.

Hunnu - 209 BC

Potential ancestors of the Huns did not waste time in vain

During the 4th and 3rd centuries BC. China was divided into several small appanage principalities, constantly at war with each other. Of course, wars among sedentary peoples attracted steppe dwellers like kites. The nomadic Xiongnu tribes easily carried out raids on the provinces in the north weakened by the feudal fragmentation. In the era of greatest power, the Hunnu empire occupied 6% of the land area and was the 10th greatest power in the annals of history. She was so invincible that it took the Han Dynasty decades of compromise and marriage agreements to keep the invaders in check.

Western Han Dynasty - 50 BC

the period that gave rise to the Chinese statehood

Speaking about the Han dynasty, one should not forget about its western part, which reached its peak of power a century after the eastern one. Of course, its territory is incomparable with the conquests of the Hunnu, but the area of ​​3.8 million square kilometers with a population of 57 million people makes you feel respect and put the Western Han on the 17th line of the charts of empires. In their quest to expand their borders, the Han pushed the Huns north and seized the territories of present-day Vietnam and Korea. Thanks to the diplomatic talent of the diplomat and traveler Zhang Qian, the contacts of the dynasty were expanded to Rome, and the Great Silk Road was also opened.

Eastern Han Dynasty - 100

The youngest brother of the Han clan

The Eastern Han Dynasty has existed for nearly two centuries, having gone through riots, conspiracies, political crisis, and a volatile economy. Despite its apparent weakness, this empire was the 12th largest in history, surpassing its predecessor. The dynastic territories covered 4.2 million square kilometers (4.4% of the land area).

Roman Empire - 117

Ave Caesar and other imperial habits - it all came from Rome

Due to its wide popularity, the Roman Empire is considered almost the coolest in the world (thanks to American cinema and the chroniclers of the Caesars) - legions of soldiers, the Roman Senate, an almost modern standard of living and other wonders of the Dream Factory. By far, at the height of its power, Rome ruled over the most extensive and sophisticated political and social structure in Western civilization. The total area of ​​the lands subject to the senate and the emperor did not exceed 2.6 million square kilometers, placing the homeland of Gaius Julius Caesar only 24th in the list of the largest empires. Anyway, modern world would not be myself if not for the ancient Roman state.

Turkic Khaganate - 557

An empire that came from nowhere

The Turkic Kaganate occupied the territories where central and northern China is now located. The history of the emergence of the conquering tribe is unclear, but just like the Hunnu people 600 years before them, the nomads conquered the territory of Inner Asia, the Silk Road, and by 557 they owned about 4% of the land surface. This puts them in 15th place on the list of the largest empires.

One of the largest: Righteous Caliphate - 655

First Muslim state

The righteous caliphate became the first state formation in history based on adherence to religion. In this case, Islam. He was born less than half a century after the death of the Prophet Muhammad in order to unite the scattered Muslim communities. Very little time separated the Caliphate from power over Egypt, Syria and the territory of the former Persian Empire. At the time of its greatest power, the area of ​​this state was almost 4 million square kilometers, making it the 14th largest in the history of the human race.

Umayyad Caliphate - year 720

The splendor and grandeur of the Arab world

The Caliphate became one of the four largest state entities in the Arab world. He grew up during the civil war among Muslim sects in 661. In addition to control over the lands of the Middle East, the territories of North Africa and Southern Europe were in the hands of the Caliph. This power was home to 29% of the world's inhabitants (62 million people) and the area was 7.45% of the total planetary, making the Umayyad Caliphate the eighth largest empire in history.

Abbasid Caliphate - 750

Empire created by the descendants of the prophet

The age of power of the Umayyads was short-lived: the caliphate lasted 30 years, and then was captured by the Abbasids, who were led to the uprising by the descendants of the younger uncle of the Prophet Muhammad (as they themselves stated, of course). According to the Abbasids, their "purer" lineage gave them the right to rule over the faithful. After a successful coup in 750 AD, the Abbasid Caliphate lasted four centuries and acquired many alliances, including with China. Although this empire did not exceed the size of the Umayyad Caliphate, but under the control of the descendants of Muhammad was about 8 million square kilometers of land, which puts their possessions on the seventh step in the list of the greatest empires. However, the power and size did not help the state, which fell under the onslaught of the hordes of Genghis Khan's army in 1206.

Tibetan Empire - 800

Diplomacy is the main weapon of Tibet

At the time of its heyday, no more than 3% of the population lived on the territory of the Tibetan Empire the globe... And this is that in the West gigantic Muslim states were born and died in full swing, and in the East the Tang dynasty ruled with might and main, consisting with the Arabs in a monolithic alliance. We can say that Tibet of that time was surrounded by a pack of predators who dreamed of grabbing a piece from it. And only thanks to diplomacy and good military training of soldiers, the Tibetan Empire lasted 200 years. Ironically, it was the growing influence of Buddhism and civil war that killed her, not external enemies.

Tang Dynasty - 820

The period that became the dawn Chinese culture and arts

The Tang Dynasty became the first state entity in China to embrace cosmopolitanism and the exchange of cultural experience with other powers. The invention of the printing press, engravings, the flourishing of painting and literature belong to the period of the golden age of Tang. Two poets, Li Bai and Du Fu, considered some of the greatest in Chinese history, lived precisely during the Tang Dynasty. This empire did not last long (in comparison with other dynasties in China) - only three centuries, from 618 to 907, but its contribution to world culture and art should not be underestimated. The dynasty's territories accounted for 3.6% of the total terrestrial area.

Mongol Empire - 1270

One of the largest empires and families

Although the name of Genghis Khan is known to almost every inhabitant of the Earth, not everyone understands how huge his empire was. At its peak, the Mongol Empire covered an area of ​​over 19 million square kilometers (for comparison, four Roman empires or three territories of the United States would have occupied the same amount). Therefore, it is not surprising that the state of Genghis Khan "took silver" in the rating of the largest powers in history.

Golden Horde - 1310

The main enemy of medieval Russia

Genghis Khan was far from being a fool and clearly understood that his power rests on the authority of the leader. To ensure stability and prosperity for the empire, he divided the subordinate territories among his many children, thereby ensuring the law of succession and separation of powers. Thus, even individual parts of the khanate were the most powerful state formations... The brightest and most powerful "offshoot" of the Mongol Empire was Golden Horde, which occupied 4.03% of the world's land mass.

Yuan Dynasty - 1310

An empire that sank into oblivion before reaching maturity

Thanks to the military talents of one of the many grandchildren of Genghis Khan, first the northern lands of China, and then the rest of its territory, were united under the rule of the Yuan dynasty. By 1310, the Yuan State had become the largest independent part of the Mongol Empire, with an area of ​​8.5 million square kilometers. To the shame of the descendants of the great conqueror, Yuan also became one of the list of short-lived empires: the riots that flared up throughout the XIV century led to the overthrow of the authorities in 1368.

Ming dynasty - 1450

World's Largest Fleet - Clearly Proud

The Ming Dynasty, as one would expect, grew up on the ruins of a bygone empire - the Yuan Dynasty. Although pressed from the north by the Mongols, Ming still owned 4.36% of the land area and ranked 13th in the list of the largest powers. This period also became famous for the construction of the largest Chinese (and world) fleet and the rapid development of maritime trade with almost the entire world.

Ottoman Empire - 1683

The Turkish state has always been stable (until now)

Istanbul at that time was still called Constantinople, becoming the capital of the Turkish (or Ottoman) Empire in spite of the entire Christian world. And although the area of ​​this power was not as large as its predecessors, the Ottoman Empire showed miracles of amazing "vitality." This power successfully developed, prospered and fought for more than six centuries, fighting off attacks from the West and the East from the 13th century until it fell during the First World War, giving way to the Turkish Republic in 1922.

Qing Dynasty - 1790

The last breaths of an empire before the red era

Qing, the last imperial dynasty of China, left an impressive memory of itself: 10% of the planet's territory and almost 400 million inhabitants, including Thailand and Korea. The Qing dynasty held power for nearly four centuries, until uprisings in February 1912 prompted the last emperor to relinquish the throne. It was these events that allowed the birth of the only country in the world that successfully applied the combination of socialist rule with a capitalist economy - the People's Republic of China (PRC).

Spanish Empire - 1810

Temporary queen of the seas

Spain, which for a long time remained in the shadow of the European powers, by the end of the 18th century, possessed vast territories throughout the world. Thanks to a powerful fleet (for a long time the invincible Spanish Armada), Madrid controlled most of the Caribbean islands, almost all of South America, part of Central and North America, Africa, Oceania, the Middle East and even Europe.

Portuguese Empire - 1820

European old man-long-lived among the maritime powers

The Portuguese colonial empire became the first state with a developed connection between the metropolis and the overseas provinces, but did not grow to the size of the Spanish Empire - it had "only" 3.69% of the land area at its disposal. At the same time, the Portuguese Empire became the longest-lived in Europe: for six centuries it claimed its rights to lands outside the territorial borders of the state and ceased to exist only on December 20, 1999.

Brazilian Empire - 1889

The gray horse among the world powers

Originating as part of the Portuguese colonial empire, the Brazilian power began its journey in 1822, declaring its independence. The young state immediately attracted attention, which gave rise to military conflicts with Uruguay and Great Britain. Oddly enough, Brazil emerged victorious from both disputes, declaring itself to the whole world as a country with a progressive outlook on governance and foreign policy... By 1889, the Brazilian Empire occupied most of South America (7 million square kilometers).

Russian Empire - 1895

A land of vast territories and great victories

The Russian Empire became a colossal state that officially existed from 1721 to 1917. Born as an agricultural country with an ancient history and culture, to XIX century Russia has become a powerful power, on a par with the most developed countries that time, raising the population level from 15.5 to 171 million (in 1895). Under the rule of the Russian emperor were not only the primordially Russian lands, but also Finland, the Baltic States, Poland, almost all of Asia. Russia received "bronze" and an honorable third place in the ranking of the largest empires in human history.

Second Empire (France) - 1920

Another attempt by the French to become the rulers of the planet

To compete with Spain, Britain, Portugal, the United Provinces, France had to go a long way in the colonization of overseas lands. The first step towards this was the conquest of Algeria in 1830. By the 1920s, France owned lands in Africa, South-East Asia, South America and in the Middle East. 7.7% of the world's territory and 5% of the world's population were under the rule of the French.

British Empire - 1920

The greatest power of all times and peoples

This may be obvious, but this makes it no less surprising: the British Empire was the most powerful and largest empire in the entire time of human existence on planet Earth. The total area of ​​land subject to the English crown was 26 million square kilometers (which is more than 30% more than the area of ​​the Mongol Empire). A quarter of the world's population was under British rule. The result of such a global expansion was the penetration of the English language and culture into all, even the most remote corners of the world.

Most people see the 1997 handover of Hong Kong to China as the end of British imperialism. However, if you look at the world map with an open mind, Britain still controls most of the world, albeit in a more subtle way. And perhaps it was Foggy Albion that achieved world domination.

Of course, history knows other empires - the Aztecs, Mayans, Toltecs, ancient Egyptian and Greek civilizations, the Knossos and Mycenaean cultures, the Etruscan empire. However, all of them, although they made an incredible contribution to culture, art, science and the development of mankind, did not stand out in size. About them, ancient civilizations, as a source of wisdom and progress, should be discussed separately.

03.05.2013

A hundred years ago, countries were striving to become the most powerful and developed powers in the world, seizing more and more new territories, spreading their influence. These are the top 10 most great empires the world in history. They are considered the most important and longest in existence, they were powerful and played an important role in history. The Russian Empire and even the great Macedonian Empire, created by Alexander the Great, did not make it to the top 10, but it was the first European empire that advanced into Asia and defeated the Persian Empire, and perhaps one of the most powerful in the ancient world. But, it is believed that these 10 great empires were more important in history, made a greater contribution.

Mayan empires (c. 2000 BC-1540 AD)

This empire is notable for its longevity, its cycle lasted almost 3500 years! This is double the life of the Roman Empire. So far, scientists know very little about the first 3000 years, as well as about the mysterious pyramid-like structures scattered throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. Is it worth mentioning the famous doomsday calendar?

French empire (1534-1962)

Second largest in history great empire- French colonial empire, occupied 4.9 million square miles and covered almost 1/10 of the total area of ​​the Earth. Her influence made French one of the most common at the time, brought fashion to French architecture, culture, cuisine, etc. to all corners of the globe. However, she gradually lost influence, and two world wars completely deprived her of her last strength.

Spanish Empire (1492-1976)

One of the first large empires that seized territories in Europe, America, Africa, Asia and Oceania, creating colonies. For hundreds of years, it has remained one of the most important political and economic forces in the world. The main contribution to history is undeniably the discovery of the New World in 1492 and the spread of Christianity in the Western world.

Qing Dynasty (1644-1912)

The last ruling dynasty of China in its imperial past. It was founded by the Manchu clan Aisin Gioro on the territory of modern Manchuria in 1644, rapidly grew and developed, and as a result, by the 18th century, covered all the territories of modern China, Mongolia and even parts of Siberia. The empire covered an area of ​​more than 5,700,000 square miles. The dynasty was overthrown during the Xinhai Revolution.

Umayyad Caliphate (661-750)

One of the fastest growing great empires in history, whose century, however, was just as short. It was founded by one of the four caliphates - the Umayyad Caliphate, after the death of the Prophet Muhammad and served to spread Islam throughout the Middle East and North Africa. Sweeping away everything in its path, Islam seized power in the region and retains it to this day.

Achaemenid Empire (c. 550-330 BC)

Most often it is called the Medo-Persian Empire. Stretching from the Indus Valley of modern Pakistan to Libya and the Balkans, this empire is the largest Asian empire in ancient history. The founder - Cyrus the Great, today is better known as the enemy of the Greek city-states during the Greco-Persian wars, who was killed by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC. After his death, the empire split into two large parts and several independent territories. The model of state and bureaucracy invented in this empire still works today.

Great Ottoman Empire (1299-1922)

Became one of the largest and longest-lived great empires of the world in history. During its heyday (under the rule of Suleiman the Magnificent) in the 16th century, it stretched from the southern borders of the Holy Roman Empire to the Persian Gulf, and from the Caspian Sea to Algeria, effectively wielding control over much of southeastern Europe, Western Asia and North Africa. ... At the beginning of the 17th century, the empire included no less than 32 provinces, along with numerous vassal states. Unfortunately, ethnic and religious tensions, competition from other powers led to a gradual disintegration in the 19th century.

Mongol Empire (1206-1368)

Despite the fact that the empire lasted only 162 years, the pace with which it grew is daunting. Under the leadership of Genghis Khan (1163-1227), the entire territory from Eastern Europe to the Sea of ​​Japan was captured. At its peak, it covered an area of ​​9,000,000 square miles. Perhaps the empire would have succeeded in capturing Japan as well, had the ships not been destroyed by the tsunamis of 1274 and 1281. By the middle of the 14th century, the empire, in the course of internal conflicts, began to gradually disintegrate and eventually divided into several states.

British Empire (1603 to 1997)

Despite a short century of life - only 400 years, the British Empire (in fact, several British Isles) managed to become the largest in history. At its peak in 1922, the empire ruled over almost 500 million people (1/5 of the world's population at that time) and covered more than 13 million square meters. miles (1/4 of the Earth's area)! That empire had colonies on all continents of the world. Alas, it all ends someday. After two world wars, Britain was financially devastated and after the loss of India in 1947, gradually began to lose influence and colonies.

Great Roman Empire (27 BC to 1453)

Founded in 27 BC. It existed for 1500 years by Octavian Augustus! And it was eventually overthrown by the Turks under the leadership of Mehmed II, who destroyed Constantinople in 1453. In 117 A.D. flourished great empire ... At this time, she was the most powerful on earth, although not the largest in history. The population was 56.8 million people, the territory under her rule was equal to 2,750,000 km². The influence on modern Western culture, language, literature, science is difficult to assess, because it is incredibly great.

Incredible facts

Throughout the history of mankind, we have seen how empires are born and disappear into oblivion, over decades, centuries and even millennia. If it's true that history repeats itself, then perhaps we can learn from the mistakes and better understand the accomplishments of the world's most important long-lived empires.

Empire is a tricky word to define. Although this term is often thrown around, it is nevertheless often used in the wrong context and distorts the political location of the country. The simplest definition describes a political unit that exercises control over another political body. Basically, these are countries or groups of people who control political decisions of a smaller unit.

The term "hegemony" is often used along with empire, but there are significant differences, as well as the obvious differences between the concepts of "leader" and "bully". Hegemony works as an agreed set of international rules, while the empire produces and enforces those very rules. Hegemony is the dominance of one group over other groups, but requires majority consent in order for that leadership group to remain in power.

Which empires have lasted the longest in history, and what can we learn from them? Below we look at these kingdoms of the past, how they formed, and the factors that ultimately led to their downfall.

10. Portuguese Empire

The Portuguese Empire is remembered for having one of the strongest fleets the world has ever seen. Less known fact is that it did not "leave" the face of the earth until 1999. The kingdom lasted 584 years. It was the first global empire in history, operating on four continents, and it began in 1415 when the Portuguese captured the Muslim city of North Africa Cueta (Cueta). The expansion continued as they moved into Africa, India, Asia, and America.

After World War II, decolonization efforts intensified in many areas, with the result that many European countries "withdrew" from their colonies around the world. This did not happen with Portugal until 1999, when it finally abandoned Macau in China, signaling the "end" of the empire.

The Portuguese empire was able to expand so much because of its excellent weapons, naval superiority, and its ability to quickly build ports for the trade in sugar, slaves and gold. She also had enough strength to conquer new peoples and gain land. But, as is the case with most empires throughout history, conquered areas ultimately seek to reclaim their lands.

The Portuguese empire collapsed for several reasons, including international pressure and economic tensions.

9. Ottoman Empire

At the height of its power, the Ottoman Empire was located on three continents, covering a wide range of cultures, religions and languages. Despite these differences, the empire was able to flourish for 623 years, from 1299 to 1922.

The Ottoman Empire got its start as a small Turkish state after the weakened Byzantine Empire left the region. Osman I pushed the boundaries of his empire outward, relying on strong judicial, educational and military systems, as well as a unique method of transferring power. The empire continued to expand and eventually conquered Constantinople in 1453 and spread its influence deeper into Europe and North Africa. The civil wars in the early 1900s that followed immediately after World War I, as well as the Arab uprising, were the signal for the beginning of the end. At the end of World War I, the Treaty of Sevres divided most of the Ottoman Empire. The last point was turkish war for independence, as a result of which Constantinople fell in 1922.

Inflation, competition and unemployment are cited as key factors in the downfall of the Ottoman Empire. Each part of this massive empire was culturally and economically diverse, and their inhabitants ultimately wanted to break free.

8. Khmer Empire

Little is known about the Khmer Empire, however, its capital city of Angkor was said to be very impressive thanks in large part to Angkor Wat, one of the world's largest religious monuments, built at the zenith of its power. The Khmer Empire began its existence in 802 AD, when Jayavarman II was proclaimed king of the region, which now belongs to the territory of Cambodia. 630 years later, in 1432, the empire came to an end.

Some of what we know about this empire comes from stone murals found in the region, and some information was also obtained from the Chinese diplomat Zhou Daguan, who traveled to Angkor in 1296 and published a book about his experiences. Almost all the time of the empire's existence, it tried to seize more and more new territories. Angkor was the main home of the nobility during the second period of the empire. When the Khmer power began to weaken for control over Angkor, neighboring civilizations began to fight.

There are many theories as to why the empire collapsed. Some believe that the king converted to Buddhism, which led to the loss of workers, the degeneration of the water system, and, ultimately, very weak harvests. Others claim that the Thai kingdom of Sukhothai conquered Angkor in the 1400s. Another theory suggests that the last straw was the transfer of power to the city of Oudong, while Angkor remained abandoned.

7. Ethiopian Empire

Considering the history of the Ethiopian Empire, we know surprisingly little about it. Ethiopia and Liberia were the only African countries that were able to withstand the European "battle for Africa". The long existence of the empire began in 1270, when the Solomonid dynasty overthrew the Zagwe dynasty, declaring that they owned the rights to this land, as King Solomon bequeathed. Since then, the dynasty subsequently turned into an empire, by uniting new civilizations under its rule.

All this continued until 1895, when Italy declared war on the empire, and then the problems began. In 1935, Benito Mussolini ordered his soldiers to invade Ethiopia, and as a result, the war raged there for seven months, with the result that Italy was declared the winner of this war. From 1936 to 1941, Italians ruled the country.

The Ethiopian empire did not greatly expand its borders and did not exhaust its resources, as we saw in the previous examples. Rather, Ethiopia's resources have become more powerful, in particular it comes about the largest coffee plantations. Civil wars contributed to the weakening of the empire, however, at the head of everything, nevertheless, was the desire of Italy to expand, which led to the fall of Ethiopia.

6. Kanem Empire

We know very little about the Kanem Empire and how its people lived, most of our knowledge we got from the discovery in 1851 text document called Girgam. Over time, Islam became their main religion, however, it is believed that the introduction of religion could cause internal strife in the early years of the empire. The Kanem Empire was established around 700 and lasted until 1376. It was located on the territory of present-day Chad, Libya and part of Nigeria.

According to the document found, the Zaghawa people founded their capital in the city of Njima (N "jimi) in 700. The history of the empire is divided between two dynasties - Duguwa and Sayfawa (which was the driving force that brought Islam). Its expansion continues. and during the period when the king declared holy war, or jihad, on all the surrounding tribes.

The military system, designed to facilitate jihad, was based on the state principles of hereditary nobility, in which the soldiers received part of the lands they conquered, while the lands were listed for them for many years, even their sons could dispose of them. This system led to the outbreak of a civil war that weakened the empire and made it vulnerable to attack from external enemies. The invaders of Bulala were able to quickly seize power over the capital and, eventually, in 1376, take over the management of the empire.

A lesson from the Kanem empire shows how bad decisions provoke internal conflict, as a result of which once powerful people become defenseless. This development of events is repeated throughout history.

5. Holy Roman Empire

The Holy Roman Empire was seen as a revival of the Western Roman Empire, and it was also considered a political counterweight to the Roman Catholic Church. Its name, however, comes from the fact that the emperor was chosen by the voters, but he was crowned by the pope in Rome. The empire lasted from 962 to 1806 and occupied a fairly extensive territory, which is now Central Europe, primarily, this is a large part of Germany.

The empire began its existence when Otto I was proclaimed king of Germany, however, he later became known as the first emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. The empire consisted of 300 different territories, however, after a thirty-year war in 1648, it was fragmented, thereby planting the seeds of independence.

In 1792, there was an uprising in France. By 1806, Napoleon Bonaparte forced the last Holy Roman Emperor Franz II to abdicate, after which the empire was renamed the Confederation of the Rhine. Like the Ottoman and Portuguese empires, the Holy Roman Empire consisted of various ethnic groups and smaller kingdoms. Ultimately, the desire of these kingdoms to gain independence led to the collapse of the empire.

4. Silla Empire

Little is known about the early days of the Silla Empire, however, by the sixth century it was a very complex society based on ancestry, in which ancestry decided everything from the clothes that a person can wear to the work activities that he is allowed to engage in. ... Although this system initially helped the empire gain a large amount of land, it ultimately led to its decline.

The Silla Empire began in 57 BC. and occupied the territory that is currently owned by North and South Korea. Kin Park Hyeokgeose was the first ruler of the empire. During his reign, the empire constantly expanded, conquering all large quantity kingdoms on the Korean Peninsula. In the end, a monarchy was formed. The Chinese Tang Dynasty and the Silla Empire were at war in the seventh century, however, the dynasty was defeated.

An age of civil war among high-ranking families, as well as among defeated kingdoms, made the empire doomed. Eventually, in 935 AD, the empire ceased to exist and became part of the new state of Kore, which was at war in the 7th century. Historians are not aware of the exact circumstances that led to the demise of the Silla Empire, however, the general view is that neighboring countries were unhappy with the continued expansion of the empire through the Korean Peninsula. Numerous theories agree that lesser kingdoms struck to gain sovereignty.

3. Republic of Venice

The pride of the Venetian Republic was its massive navy, which allowed it to quickly prove its power across Europe and the Mediterranean by conquering such important historic cities as Cyprus and Crete. The Venetian Republic existed for an amazing 1100 years, from 697 to 1797. It all started when the Western Roman Empire fought Italy, and when the Venetians declared Paolo Lucio Anafesto their duke. The empire went through several significant changes, however, it gradually expanded and became what is now known as the Venetian Republic, feuding, among others, with the Turks and the Ottoman Empire.

A large number of wars significantly weakened the defensive forces of the empire. The city of Piedmont soon submitted to France, and Napoleon Bonaparte took over part of the empire. When Napoleon issued an ultimatum, Doge Ludovico Manin surrendered in 1797 and Napoleon took over Venice.

The Venetian Republic is a classic example of how an empire that stretches over great distances fails to defend its capital. Unlike other empires, it was not civil wars that killed it, but wars with its neighbors. The highly regarded Venetian navy, once invincible, stretched too far to defend its own empire.

2. Empire Kush

The Kush Empire lasted from about 1070 BC. until 350 A.D. and occupied the territory that is currently owned by the Republic of Sudan. Throughout its long history, very little information has survived about the political structure in the region, however, there is evidence of monarchies in last years existence. However, the Kush Empire ruled over several of the region's smaller countries, while maintaining power. The empire's economy was heavily dependent on the iron and gold trade.

Some evidence suggests that the empire was attacked by desert tribes, while other scholars believe that over-dependence on iron led to deforestation, causing people to "disperse."

Other empires fell because they used their own people or neighboring countries, however, deforestation theory suggests that the Kush empire fell by destroying its own lands. Both the rise and fall of the empire were fatally associated with the same industry.

1. Eastern Roman Empire

The Roman Empire is not only one of the most famous in history, it is also the empire that has lasted the longest. It went through several eras, but, in fact, lasted from 27 BC. until 1453 A.D. - a total of 1480 years. The republics that preceded it were destroyed by civil wars, and Julius Caesar became dictator. The empire expanded into what is now Italy and most of the Mediterranean region. The empire was powerful, but the emperor Diocletian in the third century "introduced" a key factor to ensure the long-term success and prosperity of the empire. He determined that two emperors could rule, thereby alleviating the stress of capturing a large number of territories. Thus, the foundations were laid for the possibility of the existence of the Eastern and Western Roman Empires.

The Western Roman Empire dissolved in 476, when German forces revolted and overthrew Romulus Augustus from the imperial throne. The Eastern Roman Empire continued to flourish after 476, becoming better known as the Byzantine Empire.

Class conflicts led to civil war 1341-1347, which not only reduced the number of small states that were part of the Byzantine Empire, but also allowed the short-lived Serbian Empire for a short period of time to rule in some territories of the Byzantine Empire. Social upheaval and plague contributed to the further weakening of the kingdom. Combined with growing imperial unrest, plague and social unrest, it eventually fell when the Ottoman Empire conquered Constantinople in 1453.

Despite the strategy of co-ruler Diocletian, which undoubtedly significantly increased the "lifespan" of the Roman Empire, it suffered the same fate as other empires, whose massive expansion eventually provoked various ethnic groups to fight for sovereignty.

These empires lasted the longest in history, but each of them had its weak points, be it the use of land or people, none of the empires was able to contain social unrest caused by class conflicts, unemployment or lack of resources.

It is in history that answers to many questions of our time can be found. Do you know about the largest empire that has ever existed on the planet? TravelAsk will talk about two world giants of the past.

Largest empire by area

The British Empire is the largest state that ever existed in the history of mankind. Of course, here we are talking not only about the continent, but also about colonies on all inhabited continents. Just think: it was even less than a hundred years ago. At different times, the area of ​​Britain was different, but the maximum is 42.75 million square meters. km (of which 8.1 million sq. km is the territory in Antarctica). This is two and a half times more than today's territory of Russia. This is 22% of the land. The greatest flourishing of the British Empire came in 1918.

The total population of Britain at its peak was about 480 million (roughly one quarter of humanity). That is why the English language is so widespread. This is a direct legacy of the British Empire.

How the state was born

The British Empire grew over a long period of approximately 200 years. The twentieth century was the culmination of its growth: at this time, the state possessed various territories on all continents. For this it is called an empire "over which the sun never sets."

And it all started quite peacefully in the 18th century: with trade and diplomacy, occasionally with colonial conquests.

The Empire helped spread British technology, trade, English and its form of government throughout the world. Of course, the basis of power was the navy, which was used everywhere. He ensured freedom of navigation, fought against slavery and piracy (slavery was abolished in Britain at the beginning of the 19th century). This made the world a safer place. It turns out, instead of seeking power over vast inland territories for the sake of possession of resources, the empire relied on trade and control over strategically important points. It was this strategy that made the British Empire the most powerful.

The British Empire was very diverse, comprising territories on all continents, which created a great variety of cultures. The state included a very diverse population, thanks to which it was able to govern different regions either directly or through local rulers, these are great skills for government. Think about it: British rule extended to India, Egypt, Canada, New Zealand and many other countries.

When the decolonization of the United Kingdom began, the British tried to introduce parliamentary democracy and the rule of law in the former colonies, but they did not succeed everywhere. The influence of Great Britain on its former territories is noticeable even today: most of the colonies decided that the Commonwealth of Nations was replacing the Empire with it psychologically. All former dominions and colonies of the state are members of the Commonwealth. Today it includes 17 countries, including the Bahamas and others. That is, they in fact recognize the monarch of Great Britain as their monarch, but in place of his power is represented by the governor-general. But it should be said that the title of monarch does not imply any political power over the Commonwealth Kingdoms.

Mongol Empire

The second in area (but not in power) is the Mongol Empire. It was formed as a result of the conquests of Genghis Khan. Its area is 38 million square meters. km: this is slightly less than the area of ​​Britain (and if we consider that Britain owned 8 million square kilometers in Antarctica, then the figure looks even more impressive). The territory of the state stretched from the Danube to the Sea of ​​Japan and from Novgorod to Cambodia. It is the largest continental state in the history of mankind.

The state did not last long: from 1206 to 1368. But this empire greatly influenced the modern world: it is believed that 8% of the world's population are descendants of Genghis Khan. And this is quite likely: only the eldest son Temujin had 40 sons.

During its heyday, the Mongol Empire included vast territories of Central Asia, Southern Siberia, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, China and Tibet. It was the largest land empire in the world.

Its rise is amazing: a group of Mongolian tribes, no more than a million people, managed to conquer empires that were literally hundreds of times larger. How did they achieve this? Thoughtful tactics of action, high mobility, the use of technical and other achievements of the captured peoples, as well as the correct organization of the rear and supply.

But here, of course, there could be no question of any diplomacy. The Mongols completely massacred cities that did not want to obey them. More than one city was swept off the face of the earth. Moreover, Temujin and his descendants destroyed the great and ancient states: the state of the Khorezmshahs, the Chinese Empire, the Baghdad Caliphate, Volga Bulgaria. Modern historians say that about 50% of the total population died in the occupied territories. So, the population of the Chinese dynasties was 120 million people, after the Mongol invasion it decreased to 60 million.

The consequences of the invasions of the great khan

By 1206, the commander Temujin united all the Mongol tribes and was proclaimed a great khan over all the tribes, receiving the title "Genghis Khan". He conquered northern China, devastated Central Asia, conquered the whole Central Asia and Iran, devastating this entire region.

The descendants of Genghis Khan ruled an empire that captured most of Eurasia, including almost the entire Middle East, parts of Eastern Europe, China and Russia. Despite all the power, the real threat to the domination of the Mongol Empire was the enmity between its rulers. The empire split into four khanates. The largest fragments of Great Mongolia were the Yuan Empire, the Jochi Ulus (Golden Horde), the Hulaguid state and the Chagatai ulus. They, in turn, also failed or were subdued. In the last quarter of the XIV century, the Mongol Empire ceased to exist.

However, despite such a short supremacy, the Mongol Empire influenced the unification of many regions. So, for example, the eastern and western parts of Russia and the western regions of China remain united to this day, albeit in other forms of government. Russia also gained strength: during the Tatar-Mongol yoke, Moscow was granted the status of a tax collector for the Mongols. That is, the Russian residents collected tribute and taxes for the Mongols, while the Mongols themselves were extremely rare in the Russian lands. In the end, the Russian people received military power, which allowed Ivan III to overthrow the Mongols under the leadership of the Moscow principality.

The abstracts were prepared based on the materials of the German magazine "Illustrierte Wissenschaft".

From the school history course, we know about the emergence of the first states on earth with their peculiar way of life, culture and art. The distant and in many ways mysterious life of people of past times excited and awakened imagination. And, probably, for many it would be interesting to see the maps of the greatest empires of antiquity, placed side by side. Such a comparison makes it possible to feel the size of the once gigantic state formations and the place they occupied on Earth and in the history of mankind.

Egypt. The empire reached its largest size in 1450 BC. NS.

Greece. Lands where Greek culture flourished are marked in dark on the map.

Persia. Empire territory in 500 BC NS.

India. The country's territory reached its largest size in 250 BC. NS.

China occupied such a territory in 221 BC. NS.

The Roman Empire at its peak - the beginning of the 2nd century new era.

Byzantium during its heyday - VI century.

Arab Caliphate. It reached its largest size in 632 AD. NS. A118 years later, the area of ​​the Caliphate was significantly reduced (dark shading).

The state is an ancient social formation and means the territory occupied by a sedentary population, subject to the same authority. Ancient thinkers already thought about the essence of the state structure. For example, the Greek philosopher Aristotle saw in the state the final natural form of community, important for a person who by nature is a "political being." Moreover, he considered the state "the environment of a completely happy life."

In the Middle Ages and at a later time, contractual principles between a person and the supreme power began to be invested in the concept of "state". In the natural state, a person lacks rights, the 17th century English thinkers John Milton and John Locke believed, but their provision, which he finds in a state approved by treaty for this very purpose.

A true son of the Age of Enlightenment, Jean-Jacques Rousseau saw the meaning of the formation of a state in the observance of the interests of each of its citizens. People need it in order to "find a form of union that would protect and ensure the personality and property of each member of society so that each, uniting with others, would obey only himself and remain as free as before." "Freedom is not alienable" - Rousseau's main position.

Even 8-9 thousand years ago, people began to move to a sedentary lifestyle. Agriculture and the first domestic animals appeared. The so-called Neolithic revolution took place, which brought people to new living conditions. Agriculture could already provide a person with sufficient food, so hunting and gathering receded into the background. There was a division of labor between members of the same group, led by the leaders who ruled the communities of people. Over time, there was a need for public buildings, and the construction of palaces, temples, fortresses began. Writing and the beginnings of arithmetic, astronomy and medicine arose.

Rivers played a huge role in the formation of early civilizations. A river is not only a waterway, but also a stable harvest, it is no coincidence that in those distant times people began to build canals and dams. But since the scattered tribes could not afford large reclamation buildings, the groups of farmers united. The first state formations arose in Mesopotamia, between the Tigris and the Euphrates, where a flourishing culture developed.

Modern archaeologists and historians identify several conditions that give the right to call ancient communities of people a state. The first of them is no less than five thousand people who worship the same gods. Power is equipped with an apparatus of officials, and writing is indispensable, existing in any form. Large buildings - palaces and temples - are also an obligatory attribute of statehood. The population is divided according to specialties, so that everyone can no longer do everything for himself and his family. Thus, along with the priests and the soldiers, there appeared artists, philosophers, builders, blacksmiths, weavers, potters, reapers, merchants, and so on.

The ancient empires that played their role in the history of mankind possessed all of the above conditions. But in addition, they were characterized by long-term political stability and well-established communications to the most remote outskirts, without which it is impossible to manage vast territories. All great empires had large armies: the passion for conquest was almost manic. And the rulers of such states at times achieved impressive successes, subjugating vast lands on which giant empires arose. But time passed, and the giant left the historical stage.

First empire

Egypt. 3000-30 BC

This empire lasted three millennia - longer than any other. The state arose, according to the latest data, more than 3000 years BC, and when the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt (2686-2181) took place, the so-called Old Kingdom was formed. The whole life of the country was connected with the Nile River, with its fertile valley and delta by the Mediterranean Sea. The pharaoh ruled Egypt (this word means a food warehouse), governors and officials sat on the ground, and in general public life in the country was quite developed (see "Science and Life" No. 1, 1997 - "The Stone Age was not over yet" - and No. 5, 1997 - " Ancient Egypt... The pyramid of power "). Officers, scribes, surveyors and local priests were ranked among the elite of society. Pharaoh was considered a living deity, and made all the most important sacrifices himself.

The Egyptians fanatically believed in the afterlife, cultural objects and magnificent buildings - pyramids and temples - were dedicated to it. The walls of the burial chambers interspersed with hieroglyphs told more about the life of the ancient state than other archaeological finds.

The history of Egypt falls into two periods. The first - from the foundation until 332 BC, when Alexander the Great conquered the country. And the second period - the reign of the Ptolemaic dynasty - the descendants of one of the generals of Alexander the Great. In 30 BC, Egypt was conquered by a younger and more powerful empire - the Roman.

Cradle of Western Culture

Greece. 700-146 BC

People inhabited the southern part of the Balkan Peninsula tens of thousands of years ago. But only from the 7th century BC it is possible to speak of Greece as a large, culturally homogeneous formation, albeit with reservations: the country was a union of city-states united at the time of an external threat, as, for example, to repel Persian aggression.

Culture, religion and, above all, language were the framework within which the history of this country proceeded. In 510 BC, most of the cities were freed from the autocracy of the kings. Democracy soon began to rule in Athens, but only male citizens had the right to vote.

The state structure, culture and science of Greece became a model and an inexhaustible source of wisdom for almost all the later states of Europe. Already Greek scientists asked themselves about life and the Universe. It was in Greece that the foundations of such sciences as medicine, mathematics, astronomy and philosophy were laid. Greek culture stopped developing when the Romans invaded the country. The decisive battle took place in 146 BC near the city of Corinth, when the troops of the Greek Achaean Union were defeated.

Dominion of the "King of Kings"

Persia. 600-331 BC

In the 7th century BC, the nomadic tribes of the Iranian highlands revolted against Assyrian rule. The victors founded the state of Media, which later, together with Babylonia and other neighboring countries, turned into a world power. By the end of the 6th century BC, it, led by Cyrus II, and then by his successors, who belonged to the Achaemenid dynasty, continued their conquests. In the west, the empire's lands reached the Aegean Sea, in the east, its border passed along the Indus River, in the south, in Africa, the possessions reached the first rapids of the Nile. (Most of Greece was occupied during the Greco-Persian War by the troops of the Persian king Xerxes in 480 BC.)

The monarch was called "King of kings", he stood at the head of the army and was the supreme judge. The possessions were divided into 20 satrapies, where the governor of the king ruled in his name. The subjects spoke four languages: Old Persian, Babylonian, Elamite and Aramaic.

In 331 BC, Alexander the Great defeated the hordes of Darius II, the last of the Achaemenid dynasty. Thus ended the history of this great empire.

Peace and love - for everyone

India. 322-185 BC

Traditions about the history of India and its rulers are very fragmentary. Few data refer to the time when the founder of the religious teachings Buddha lived (566-486 BC), the first real person in the history of India.

In the first half of the 1st millennium BC, many small states arose in the northeastern part of India. One of them - Magadha - has risen thanks to the successful wars of conquest. King Ashoka, who belonged to the Maurya dynasty, expanded his possessions so much that they already occupied almost all of today's India, Pakistan and part of Afghanistan. The tsar was obeyed by officials of the administration and a strong army. At first, Ashoka was known as a cruel commander, but after becoming a follower of the Buddha, he preached peace, love and tolerance and received the nickname "Converted". This king built hospitals, fought against deforestation, and pursued a soft policy towards his people. His decrees that have come down to us, carved on rocks, columns, are the oldest, accurately dated epigraphic monuments in India, telling about government, social relations, religion and culture.

Even before his rise, Ashoka divided the population into four castes. The first two were privileged - priests and soldiers. The invasion of the Bactrian Greeks and internal strife in the country led the empire to disintegration.

The beginning of more than two thousand years of history

China. 221-210 BC

During the period called Zhanyu in the history of China, the many years of struggle waged by many small kingdoms brought victory to the Qin kingdom. It united the conquered lands and in 221 BC formed the first Chinese empire led by Qin Shi-Huangdi. The emperor carried out reforms that strengthened the young state. The country was divided into districts, military garrisons were established to maintain order and tranquility, a network of roads and canals was built, the same education was introduced for officials, and a single monetary system operated throughout the kingdom. The monarch approved an order in which people were obliged to work where the interests and needs of the state required it. Even such an interesting law was introduced: all carts must have an equal distance between the wheels so that they move along the same tracks. In the same reign, the Great Wall of China was created: it connected the separate sections of defensive structures built earlier by the northern kingdoms.

In 210, Qing Shi-huangdi died. But subsequent dynasties left the foundations of empire building, laid by its founder, intact. In any case, the last dynasty of emperors of China ceased to exist at the beginning of our century, and the borders of the state remain practically unchanged to this day.

An army that protects order

Rome. 509 BC - 330 AD

In 509 BC, the Romans expelled the Etruscan king Tarquinius the Proud from Rome. Rome became a republic. By 264 BC, her troops captured the entire Apennine Peninsula. After that, expansion began in all directions of the world, and by 117 AD, the state stretched its borders from west to east - from the Atlantic Ocean to the Caspian Sea, and from south to north - from the rapids of the Nile and the coast of all North Africa to the borders with Scotland and along the lower course of the Danube.

For 500 years, Rome was ruled by two annually elected consuls and a senate in charge of state property and finance, foreign policy, military affairs and religion.

In 30 BC, Rome becomes an empire led by Caesar, and in essence - a monarch. The first Caesar was Augustus. A large and well-trained army participated in the construction of a huge network of roads, their total length is more than 80,000 kilometers. Excellent roads made the army very mobile and made it possible to quickly reach the most remote corners of the empire. The proconsuls appointed by Rome in the provinces - governors and officials loyal to Caesar also helped to keep the country from disintegration. This was facilitated by the settlements of soldiers who served in the conquered lands.

The Roman state, unlike many other giants of the past, fully corresponded to the concept of "empire". It also became a model for future contenders for world domination. European countries inherited much from the culture of Rome, as well as the principles of building parliaments and political parties.

The uprisings of peasants, slaves and urban plebs, the ever-increasing pressure of the Germanic and other barbarian tribes from the north forced the emperor Constantine I to move the capital of the state to the city of Byzantium, later called Constantinople. This happened in 330 AD. After Constantine, the Roman Empire was actually divided into two - Western and Eastern, which were ruled by two emperors.

Christianity - the stronghold of the empire

Byzantium. 330-1453 AD

Byzantium arose from the eastern remnants of the Roman Empire. The capital was Constantinople, founded by Emperor Constantine I in 324-330 on the site of the colony of Byzantium (hence the name of the state). From that moment on, the isolation of Byzantium began in the bowels of the Roman Empire. The Christian religion, which became the ideological foundation of the empire and the stronghold of Orthodoxy, played an important role in the life of this state.

Byzantium has existed for over a thousand years. It achieved its political and military power during the reign of Emperor Justinian I, in the 6th century AD. It was then, with a strong army, that Byzantium conquered the western and southern lands of the former Roman Empire. But within these limits the empire did not last long. In 1204, under the blows of the crusaders, Constantinople fell, which never rose again, and in 1453 the capital of Byzantium was captured by the Ottoman Turks.

In the name of Allah

Arab Caliphate. 600-1258 AD

The sermons of the Prophet Muhammad laid the foundation for a religious and political movement in Western Arabia. Called "Islam", it contributed to the creation of a centralized state in Arabia. Soon, however, as a result of successful conquests, a vast Muslim empire, the Caliphate, was born. This map shows the largest scale of Arab conquests, who fought under the green banner of Islam. In the East, the western part of India was part of the Caliphate. The Arab world has left indelible traces in the history of mankind, in literature, mathematics and astronomy.

From the beginning of the 9th century, the Caliphate gradually began to fall apart - the weakness of economic ties, the vastness of the territories subordinate to the Arabs, which had their own culture and traditions, did not contribute to unity. In 1258, the Mongols conquered Baghdad and the Caliphate split into several Arab states.