How did the geography of Greece shape its earliest history?

HHellas, as the Greeks call their land, encompasses the Greek peninsula with its southern peninsular extension, known as the Peloponnesus (peh-luh-puh-NEE-suhs), and the islands surrounding it, an area known as the Aegean (ah-JEE-uhn) basin (Map 5.1). During the Bronze Age, which for Greek history is called the “Helladic period,” early settlers in Greece began establishing small communities contoured by the mountains and small plains that shaped the land. The geographical fragmentation of Greece encouraged political fragmentation. Early in Greek history several kingdoms did emerge — the Minoan on the island of Crete and the Mycenaean on the mainland — but the rugged terrain prohibited the growth of a great empire like those of Mesopotamia or Egypt.

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Mycenaean Dagger BladeThis scene in gold and silver on the blade of an iron dagger depicts hunters armed with spears and protected by shields defending themselves against charging lions. The Mycenaeans were a robust, warlike people who enjoyed the thrill and the danger of hunting. (From the Royal Tomb IV, Mycenae, found by H. Schliemann. National Archeological Museum, Athens/Ancient Art & Architecture Collection, Ltd./The Bridgeman Art Library)