What Was Life Like During 536 AD?
It’s easy to take the modern world for granted, but life was much different 1,500 years ago. In 536 AD, the world was populated by a variety of civilizations, all with their own cultures and way of life. Let’s take a look at what life was like for people living in 536 AD.
Overview of the World’s Population
In 536 AD, the world’s population was estimated to be about 170 million to 200 million people. The Roman Empire had collapsed by this time, allowing for the rise of many new civilizations throughout Europe and Asia.
The main populations living at this time were the Chinese, who made up roughly 32% of the world’s population, followed by India at 25%, the West Germanic Tribes at 10-15% and the Eastern Roman Empire at 10-13%.
Geography of the World
In 536 AD, much of the land was largely untamed. Only a few cities could be found, mainly clustering around the rivers where goods could be transported. Agriculture was the main source of food and livelihoods, while humans were more dependent on hunting and gathering due to the scarcity of goods.
Europe
At this time, Europe was still becoming settled. Tribes of Goths, Franks, and Visigoths roamed the land, mainly engaged in hunting, trading and nomadic lifestyles. Numerous cities and small towns can be found in Europe, such as Constantinople and Rome.
Asia
In Asia, life was less nomadic and more focused on agriculture. Ancient China’s western Han dynasty and Kushan India civilizations shaped much of Asia at this time, with superior technology, culture, and economy. Large cities flourished, built along rivers and major trade routes. Eventually, Buddhism and Confucianism spread throughout Asia.
Africa
By 536 AD, Africa had developed various societies with their own arts and cultures. Numerous areas in Africa were dedicated to trade and economy, and the continent served as a center for the slave trade. Cities flourished, especially around the Nile and Zimbabwe.
Northern Europe
In Northern Europe, the Germanic tribes were still the primary occupants. Scandinavia enjoyed a surplus in agriculture, while the Heruli, Ostrogoths, Visigoths, and Lombards fought constantly over land and resources.
Conflict During 536 AD
There were numerous conflicts during this time with China’s Eastern Wei dynasty at war with the Northern Zhou dynasty as well as China and Nepal at odds. The Byzantine Empire faced off against the Ostrogoths, resulting in a small victory for the Byzantines. In Northern Europe, the Germanic tribes faced off against each other over control of land and resources.
Ruling Dynasties of 536 AD
In the east, there was a thriving Eastern Wei dynasty in China and India’s Gupta empire, both of which had a profound effect on world culture. In the west, there was the fledgling Byzantine Empire and its northern rival, the Ostrogoths. The Sassanid Empire in Persia also competed with its neighbours.
Trade During 536 AD
Trade at this time was mainly conducted via horse or foot along large rivers and roads. Goods were transported over long distances, resulting in a flourishing slave trade. Other items such as fabric, carpets, spices, exotic animals, and ivory were also exchanged.
Religion of 536 AD
When it comes to religion, 536 AD saw the spread of Christianity throughout Europe, with the Ostrogoths and Lombards converting to the religion. Buddha and Confucius were also influential in Asia, while pagan and Druids beliefs still held sway in Northern Europe.
Art and Culture in 536 AD
At this time, 536 AD saw flourishing culture and art throughout the world. Constantinople hosted artists and musicians to entertain the court, while India saw the emergence of its first classical dance tradition. In China, there was a focus on scientific advances, art, and literature.
536 AD is a unique period in history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world’s population, geography, and culture at the time. Many of the same nations still exist today, but the life at this time showed how much the world has changed over the last 1,500 years.
