The historical period that precedes the medieval period is commonly referred to as the ‘Ancient’ period. This era encompasses a vast timeline that varies by region but generally includes the rise of early civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, the Indus Valley, and Ancient China.
The Ancient period is characterized by significant developments in human society, including the invention of writing, the establishment of cities, and the emergence of organized religion and governance. These advancements laid the groundwork for the socio-political structures that would later evolve during the medieval period.
Typically, the Ancient period is considered to span from the beginning of written records around 3000 BCE until the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the late 5th century CE. This transition marks the beginning of the Middle Ages, a time often noted for its feudal systems and the influence of the Christian Church.