c. 300 BCE
Science
Alexandria
Euclidean geometry
The Elements organises geometry into axioms, proofs and theorems.
Why it mattered
The template for deductive reasoning in every later science.
Antiquity
300 BCE
3 recorded milestones at this point in the record.
c. 300 BCE
Society
Egypt
Library and Museum of Alexandria
The Ptolemies funded salaried scholars and a collection that aimed at every book in the world.
Why it mattered
The first state-supported research institution.
c. 300 BCE
Technology
China
Cast iron and the blast furnace in China
Chinese foundries reached temperatures to pour iron, 1,500 years before Europe.
Why it mattered
Gave China cheap ploughshares, pans and weapons at scale.
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