Secrets of Ancient Empires: The First Cities  (2001)

Theatrical Release Information:
Secrets of Ancient Empires: The First Cities

This program is the second episode in a five-volume series that investigates the ancient empires of the world, including those of Babylon, Greece, and Rome. The myriad beliefs and practices of these places of antiquity are presented with archival materials, art, reenactments, on-site visits, and interviews with scholars. Leaving the hunter/gatherer way of life behind, people began to congregate in communities in which they grew their food and built homes. This transition to agrarian society marked the beginning of centers of commerce that became the first cities, with all the issues on the positive and negative side. There was safety in numbers, and yet there was crime. There were cultural advantages and education, and yet there was crushing competition and exploitation. Such were the challenges in ancient times, which continue to the present day. ~ Rose of Sharon Winter, All Movie Guide