1.
ancient civilization
A complex human society from the distant past, typically characterized by urban development, writing systems, social stratification, and organized government. Refers to civilizations such as those of Mesopotamia, Egypt, the Indus Valley, and China.
Cultural note
In Japanese education, the 四大文明 (four great civilizations) — Mesopotamia, Egypt, Indus, and Yellow River — are a standard topic in world history classes. This concept is more emphasized in East Asian education systems than in Western ones.