A nation is formed through various processes and a very long history. Over the past thousands of years, nations have risen and fallen across the globe. Some countries are referred to as the oldest in the world. This claim is based on the discovery of remnants of past civilizations.
According to oldest.org, here are ten of the oldest countries in the world recorded in history.
1. Egypt – 6000 BC
Historically, Egypt is considered the oldest country in the world, possessing an ancient civilization dating back to 6000 BC. During this period, Upper and Lower Egypt united under King Menes. Menes is actually the Egyptian word for founder. Historians believe the founder of Egypt was a ruler named Narmer.
2. India – 3300 BC
People began settling in India around 3300 BC. This period is known as the Vedic Period. Modern India, however, was only established in 1947 after gaining independence from the British Empire.
3. Afghanistan – 3000 BC
Afghanistan was inhabited as early as 3000 BC. Groups of humans established one of the world's first cities, Mundi Gak, near modern Kandahar. Archaeologists have also discovered civilizations in the Indus Valley, a region in Afghanistan.
4. China – 2070 BC
China also boasts a long history, dating back to the Xia Dynasty in 2070-1600 BC. The last Chinese dynasty, the Qing Dynasty, ended in 1912 before transitioning to a republic system.
5. Georgia – 1500 BC
Georgia is a country in Eastern Europe. Historically, the Kingdom of Colchis and the Kingdom of Kartli/Iberia were located in this country. Around 1500 BC, both kingdoms were in the Bronze Age. The Kingdom of Colchis is often mentioned in Greek mythology.
6. Ethiopia – 980 BC
Ethiopia is considered one of the oldest countries in the world because its first government was formed around 980 BC. The country's history began with the establishment of the ancient D'mt kingdom during the 10th-5th centuries BC in what is now the northern part of Ethiopia's territory.
7. Greece – 800 BC
Civilization in Greece dates back to 800 BC, known as the Archaic period. During this time, the Greeks made significant advancements in art, technology, and the development of the concept of city-states and democracy.
8. Japan – 660 BC
Japan is believed to have been established since 660 BC, referencing Emperor Jimmu. Emperor Jimmu is considered popular and legendary, believed to be a descendant of the Sun Goddess Amaterasu and recorded as the first emperor.
9. Iran – 550 BC
Iran, formerly known as Persia, was established around 550 BC. Long before its founding, Iranian civilization began with several groups, such as the Elamites who settled in the west and southwest.
10. San Marino – 301 AD
San Marino is often called the oldest city-state in the world. The country was officially founded on September 3, 301 AD, when Saint Marinus built a church on Monte Titano. This church grew into the city of San Marino.
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