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Kimberly Kalec

Professor Kimberly Lark

Ancient World History/Section 112382

April 21, 2019

History Portfolio Reflection

I have always performed well in history since I was little. I usually enjoy studying the

subject. I never have to work extremely hard to pass History classes since it is easy for me to

retain historical information. I particularly love ancient history because it plays an essential role

in helping people recognize mistakes that were done in the past and thus avoid repeating them in

the future. Ancient history generally allows human beings to understand their origin and

existence. Various factors such as technology stimulate societies to adopt new lifestyles and

governance. Revolution of technology significantly influenced individuals from the ancient

world to act responsibly and contribute towards positive changes in their community.

A German goldsmith known as Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press in the

15th century. His contribution to technology was revolutionary since this enabled the mass

production of books and thus, dissemination of knowledge in a standardized form, all over

Europe (“Hist 134: Module 9”). The middle class could now afford books and literature, thus

enabling mass literacy, more dissent and widespread criticism of authorities. The enlightenment

and Reformation had a significant impact on renaissance. It was the most transforming thing in

western culture since the invention of money. Gutenberg's invention enabled science to flourish

as it offered early scientists around the globe a tool for collaboration. Additionally, the press

ripped absolute control of religious texts from the hands of church officials since they no longer
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had the power to censor and control written material regarding matters of faith and the church in

general.

Muhammad Al- Razzi, a Persian alchemist from the 9th century discovered sulfuric acid.

Today, the acid has a variety of uses. It is used to make everything from detergents to fertilizers.

Muhammad was also a pioneer in various scientific areas such as ophthalmology, pediatrics, and

obstetrics. He was among the first people to come up with cures through regulation of food

intake correct diets. He was also a well-known surgeon and was also among the first to use

opiates for anesthesia. Razzi stimulated research and advances in sciences and technology (“Hist

134: Module 6”). The Persian civilization was thus considered a scientific culture of the ancient

world as a result of these and many more inventions.

Ancient Greeks were wise and knowledgeable in their fields. They came up with new

methods for solving problems (“Hist 134: Module 5”). For instance, Ctesibius (285-230 BC) an

ancient Greek engineer, invented the first alarm clock. Time used to be tracked by a water clock.

Ctesibius was a scientist who was ahead of his time. The alarm clock had many uses; for

instance, it could alert you when it was time to eat or when hours go by. Alarm clocks still play a

vital role in our lives. They enable us to wake up early.

Understanding the history of my ancient ancestors in the context of technology has

influenced my sense of responsibility in various ways. For instance, it has made me exploit its

capabilities to enhance my innovations capacities through the use of available resources

integrated with technological tools. My ancestors have motivated me to come up with

innovations that will make the world a better place, just like they did. I have learned that with

passion, one can reach unimaginable levels of success. I appreciate ancient history since it has
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contributed to my intellectual development. Understanding the trials and tribulations which were

faced by my ancestors has helped me to define my own identity.

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Works Cited

“HIST 134: Ancient World”. Bbaddins.Schoolcraft.Edu, 2019. Module 5.

“HIST 134: Ancient World”. Bbaddins.Schoolcraft.Edu, 2019. Module 6.

“HIST 134: Ancient World”. Bbaddins.Schoolcraft.Edu, 2019. Module 9.