Join Ages of Globalization for an immersive Virtual Travel to Greece on March 18 at 9am ET, where we’ll explore Pnyx Hill — the birthplace of democracy! Step into history as we engage in a spirited ancient Greek-style debate, just as citizens did over 2,500 years ago. At Pnyx, Athenians gathered to debate laws, shape policies, and hold leaders accountable, establishing the principle that government should represent the people.
To prepare, dive into Classes 10, 11, and 12 with Professor Sachs to explore the Classical Age and the Axial Age across the West and East, periods that shaped modern political systems, philosophies, ethics, and belief structures.
Whether you’re an educator bringing global connections into the classroom or a learner eager to understand how history informs the present, AoG’s Virtual Travel to Greece offers rich insights and interactive discussions to deepen your understanding.
Mark your calendars and get ready to explore the roots of civic participation — details below!
Step Into the Birthplace of Democracy – A Virtual Tour & Debate
Ever wondered what it was like to participate in one of the most direct and influential democratic systems in history? Hosted by Globe from Home, join us on a virtual journey to Classical Athens with Dr Anthi Dipla, where we’ll stand atop the historic Pnyx hill, overlooking the Acropolis, and step into the role of an Athenian citizen shaping the future of their city.
Date: 18 March 2025
Time: 9-10am ET
What to Expect?
Discover how the Athenian Assembly of the People functioned, who had the right to speak, and how major decisions were made in a society where democracy was both radically participatory and deeply exclusive. We’ll explore the significance of public debate in shaping policies that impacted everyday Athenian life and engage in a lively discussion on:
How do ancient democratic values compare to our own?
How can we ensure all voices are heard?
What can history teach us about the role of youth in decision-making?
No prior knowledge needed just curiosity and a willingness to explore!
Class 10: The Classical Age in the West: 1,000 BCE – 1,500 CE
The Classical Age in the West was a period of profound transformation in politics, philosophy, and society, shaping the foundations of modern governance and cultural thought. This class explores Athens’ Golden Age, the rise and influence of Rome, and the conquests of Alexander the Great, which spread Hellenistic ideals across Eurasia. Through historical landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Roman Forum, and the Colosseum, learners will examine how democratic principles, legal systems, and civic life evolved during this era. Beyond political achievements, the class delves into the intellectual legacy of Greek philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, whose ideas on governance, ethics, and knowledge continue to shape our institutions today.
Explore the Class 10 Lesson Plan.
Class 11: The Classical Age in the East: 1,000 – 1,500 CE
The Classical Age in the East saw the rise of Byzantium, the Mongol Empire, and dynastic China, whose political systems, trade networks, and cultural legacies shaped civilizations across Eurasia. Learners will explore Hagia Sophia, the Registan of Samarkand, and the Great Wall of China, uncovering how these empires maintained stability, fostered innovation, and influenced societies far beyond their borders. This class challenges the Western-dominated view of the Classical Age, highlighting how Eastern civilizations connected the world through governance, trade, and cultural exchange.
Explore the Class 11 Lesson Plan.
Class 12: The Axial Age of East and West: 800 – 300 BCE
The Axial Age was a revolutionary era when transformative religious and philosophical ideas took root across different civilizations, reshaping how societies understood morality, governance, and human purpose. Learners can investigate how figures like Confucius, Socrates, and Buddha sought to answer fundamental questions about justice, virtue, and the meaning of life. Key sites such as the Temple of Confucius, the Academy of Athens, and Sarnath provide insight into the historical contexts where these ideas flourished.
Discover, Explore, Engage: UNESCO Sites as Living Classrooms
Through Ages of Globalization, learners and educators can virtually explore UNESCO sites across the world and learn about our shared history and humanity. If your school is near a World Heritage site, Geopark, or Biosphere Reserve, you have the unique opportunity to take this learning even further. A visit to these sites can bring history, culture, and sustainability to life in powerful ways. UNESCO’s latest publication, “UNESCO sites as partners for Education for Sustainable Development”, provides practical strategies for educators to turn these places into living classrooms.