Old World

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LocationAfricaEurasia

Ptolemy World Map

T and O map Guntherus Ziner 1472

Old World refers to those parts of the Earth known to Europeans, Asians, and Africans before the discovery of the Americas. The term is used in the context of, and contrasts with, the "New World" (the Americas and Oceania). The Old World consists of Africa, Europe, and Asia, sometimes extending to the Middle East and North Africa as part of the Afro-Eurasia landmass. It is home to a vast array of cultures, languages, and historical sites, many of which have played crucial roles in the development of human civilization.

History

The concept of the Old World is rooted in historical and cultural contexts, primarily during the Age of Discovery when European explorers ventured into the Atlantic Ocean and discovered lands previously unknown to them. This period marked a significant expansion of knowledge and exchange between the Old World and the New World, leading to profound changes in geography, commerce, and global relations.

Geography

The geography of the Old World varies significantly from the deserts of Africa to the mountains of Europe and the vast steppes of Asia. This diversity has contributed to a wide range of ecosystems, climates, and natural resources, which in turn have influenced the development of societies and civilizations within these continents.

Culture

The Old World is the birthplace of many of the world's major religions, including Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism, which have shaped cultural, ethical, and philosophical outlooks across the globe. It is also where some of the earliest human civilizations, such as the Mesopotamian, Egyptian, and Indus Valley Civilization, emerged, leaving a lasting legacy in terms of art, science, and governance.

Impact on the World

The interaction between the Old World and the New World following their contact in the late 15th century had a profound impact on the course of world history. The exchange of crops, animals, and technologies, known as the Columbian Exchange, dramatically altered the agricultural practices, diets, and economies of societies worldwide. Additionally, the colonization of the Americas by European powers led to significant, often devastating, effects on indigenous populations and ecosystems.

See Also

• Age of Discovery
• Columbian Exchange
• Afro-Eurasia
• New World