Ancient History
Scenarios from the dawn of civilization to 500 CE
What If Rome Embraced Greek Philosophy More Fully?
Exploring how Western intellectual history might have developed if Roman culture had more deeply integrated Greek philosophical traditions, potentially creating a different relationship between reason, religion, and political power.
What If Hero of Alexandria's Steam Engine Was Developed Further?
Exploring how history might have unfolded if ancient Greeks had recognized the practical applications of Hero's aeolipile, potentially triggering an industrial revolution nearly two millennia early.
What If Cleopatra and Caesarion Survived?
Exploring how world history would have unfolded if Cleopatra and her son by Julius Caesar escaped Egypt and established a power base elsewhere, potentially creating a rival dynasty to challenge Rome.
What If the Inca Quipu System Evolved Into Writing?
Exploring how Andean civilization might have developed if the Inca record-keeping system of knotted cords had evolved into a full writing system, potentially enabling more complex administration and knowledge preservation.
What If Maya Writing Spread Throughout the Americas?
Exploring how indigenous American civilizations might have developed if Maya hieroglyphic writing had been widely adopted across North and South America, potentially creating a continent-wide literary tradition.
What If the Library of Alexandria Was Never Destroyed?
Exploring how world history and the development of science, philosophy, and culture might have unfolded if the Great Library of Alexandria had survived intact through the centuries.