Are Armenians Part of Asian or European Civilization?

Armenians have a rich and complex cultural heritage that spans millennia, rooted in the Kura–Araxes culture of the Neolithic era. This ancient civilization significantly contributed to the evolution of human civilization in the eastern part of the Near East. As history evolved, Armenia's geopolitical position played a crucial role in its cultural and political developments.

The Kura–Araxes Culture and Its Global Contribution

Dating back to the Neolithic era, the Kura–Araxes culture was one of the pivotal contributors to the historical development in the Near East. This civilization left a lasting legacy, with its innovative practices and technologies significantly influencing the broader region. The Kura–Araxes culture thrived in the Armenian Highlands and contributed not only to the technical advancements but also to the foundations of subsequent cultures.

From the Kura–Araxes to the Achaemenid Empire

Over time, Armenia’s cultural and political landscape transformed dramatically. By the time of the Achaemenid Empire, Armenia became an integral part of the Eastern Civilization. The Achaemenid period saw Armenia under the governance and cultural influence of one of the world's largest and most powerful empires at the time.

The Hellenic Period and Greco-Roman Influence

The conquest of Alexander the Great in 330 BCE marked a significant turning point for Armenia. Armenia then became a Hellenic country, deeply influenced by Greek culture, yet retaining its unique identity. This period saw Armenia as a border province of the sprawling Greco-Roman world. From that time forward, Armenia's history was inextricably linked with that of the Western world, influenced by continuous cultural exchange and trade along the Silk Road.

Central Role in European/Western Civilization

One of the most striking contributions of Armenia to the larger context of Western civilization came with the adoption of Christianity by King Tiridates III in 301 CE. Making Christianity the state religion of Armenia marked Armenia's shift towards becoming a part of the broader European and Christian world. Many Byzantine emperors and empresses had Armenian origins, further cementing Armenia's role as a bridge between East and West.

Racial and Linguistic Roots

It is also important to note the racial and linguistic background of Armenians. Armenians belong to the Armenoid race, indigenous to the Armenian Highlands and Asia Minor Tableland. This race includes both the Anatolian farmers and the Caucasian hunter-gatherers. The language of Armenia is rich and diverse, with influences from Hurro-Urartian/Araratian, Indo-European, and other language groups, shaped by centuries of cultural exchange and historical events.

Cultural Borders and Identification

In the ancient world, the borders of Europe were defined from the Mediterranean eastward to the Near East. This area was considered the civilized and known world. The core foundation of European and Western civilization can be traced back to the Greco-Roman heritage.

Conclusion

The complex history of Armenia has seen it defined by both Eastern and Western influences. Despite periods of conquest and political change, Armenia's position as a cultural crossroads remains a central aspect of its identity. Armenian heritage is a testament to the enduring legacy of a people who have maintained a unique identity while contributing to the larger tapestry of global civilization.

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References:

Narek Gasparyan, 2021, “Are Armenians Asian?” Kim, R. (2015). The Armenian Highland: An Atlas of Classical Geography. Routledge. Pontus, T. (2020). Armenian Language and Linguistics: An Introduction. Oxford University Press.