History of Armenia

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Overview of the history of Armenia

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The history of Armenia is a rich and complex tapestry that spans several millennia, marked by periods of independence, foreign domination, and cultural flourishing. Armenia is located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia, straddling Eastern Europe and Western Asia.

Ancient Armenia

The earliest evidence of human habitation in Armenia dates back to the Stone Age. The region was home to some of the world's oldest civilizations, including the Urartu kingdom, which emerged in the 9th century BCE. The Urartians were known for their advanced architecture, irrigation systems, and metallurgy.

Kingdom of Urartu

The Kingdom of Urartu was established around Lake Van and was a formidable rival to the Assyrian Empire. The Urartians left behind numerous inscriptions and artifacts that provide insight into their society and culture.

Orontid Dynasty

Following the decline of Urartu, the Orontid Dynasty rose to power in the 6th century BCE. This dynasty is considered the first Armenian dynasty and played a crucial role in the region's history.

Classical Antiquity

During the classical period, Armenia was often caught between the rivalries of larger empires, such as the Roman Empire and the Parthian Empire.

Artaxiad Dynasty

The Artaxiad Dynasty ruled Armenia from 189 BCE to 12 CE. Under the reign of Tigranes the Great, Armenia reached its greatest territorial extent, stretching from the Caspian Sea to the Mediterranean Sea.

Roman and Persian Rule

Armenia became a battleground between the Roman Empire and the Sassanian Empire. The Treaty of Rhandeia in 63 CE established a delicate balance of power, with Armenia often serving as a buffer state.

Middle Ages

The medieval period saw the rise of the Bagratid Dynasty, which established a new Armenian kingdom in the 9th century.

Bagratid Armenia

The Bagratid Kingdom was a period of cultural and economic prosperity. The capital, Ani, became known as the "City of 1001 Churches" due to its numerous religious buildings.

Seljuk and Mongol Invasions

The Seljuk Empire and later the Mongol Empire invaded Armenia, leading to significant destruction and loss of life. Despite these challenges, Armenian culture and identity persisted.

Early Modern Period

In the early modern period, Armenia was divided between the Ottoman Empire and the Safavid Empire.

Safavid and Ottoman Rule

The Treaty of Zuhab in 1639 formalized the division of Armenia between the Ottoman and Safavid empires. This period was marked by relative stability but also by heavy taxation and forced migrations.

Modern History

The 19th and 20th centuries were periods of significant upheaval for Armenia.

Russian Empire

In the early 19th century, parts of Armenia were annexed by the Russian Empire following the Russo-Persian Wars.

Armenian Genocide

During World War I, the Armenian Genocide resulted in the deaths of an estimated 1.5 million Armenians. This tragic event is a pivotal moment in Armenian history and has had lasting impacts on the Armenian diaspora.

Soviet Armenia

After a brief period of independence following World War I, Armenia became part of the Soviet Union in 1922. Soviet rule brought industrialization and modernization but also political repression.

Independence

Armenia declared its independence from the Soviet Union on September 21, 1991. Since then, it has faced numerous challenges, including economic difficulties and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Related Pages

• Armenian culture
• Armenian language
• Armenian Apostolic Church
• Geography of Armenia
• Politics of Armenia