8th Century BCE

The 8th century BCE was a pivotal period in world history, marked by transformative events and significant cultural, political, and technological advancements. Spanning from 800 BCE to 701 BCE, this century witnessed the rise and fall of great civilizations and the laying of foundations that would shape the classical world.

Major Events and Developments

The Rise of Classical Antiquity

The 8th century BCE is conventionally regarded as the beginning of Classical Antiquity, a term used to describe the long period of cultural history centered around the Mediterranean Sea. One of the most prominent events of this era was the first Olympiad in 776 BCE, which would go on to become a cornerstone of Greek culture and influence.

During this time, Greece embarked on extensive colonization efforts, expanding its reach across the Mediterranean and Black Sea. Notably, this era also marked the composition of the epic poems attributed to Homer, such as the Iliad and the Odyssey, estimated to have been written between 750 and 650 BCE.

The Founding of Rome

One of the most significant occurrences of the century was the legendary founding of Rome in 753 BCE. According to Roman mythology, the city was established by Romulus and Remus, setting the stage for the rise of the Roman Republic and, later, the Roman Empire.

The Etruscan Expansion

The Etruscans, a civilization in ancient Italy, saw significant expansion during this century. This cultural and technological advancement reinforced their influence over the Italian peninsula and laid the groundwork for their interactions with neighboring cultures, including the nascent Roman state.

The Kingdom of Judah

In the Kingdom of Judah, the late 8th century BCE was marked by the transformation of Jerusalem from a modest town into a burgeoning city. This period of growth was catalyzed by increased population and urbanization, likely in response to the threat of Assyrian aggression.

Artifacts and Archaeology

The century also saw the creation of numerous artifacts that provide insight into the cultures of the time. Notable among these is the jewelry from the tomb of Queen Yabay in Kalhu, now modern-day Nimrud, Iraq. These items, including earrings, crowns, and rosettes, are currently housed in the Iraq Museum in Baghdad.

8th Century Bce