The ancient Egyptians believed that their gods controlled every aspect of the natural world and human existence. From the sun's daily journey across the sky to the annual flooding of the Nile, divine forces were at work everywhere.

Among the most important deities was Ra, the sun god, who was believed to sail across the sky in his solar barque each day...

The Gladiatorial Games

Gladiatorial combat was one of the most popular forms of entertainment in ancient Rome. These brutal contests took place in amphitheaters throughout the empire, with the Colosseum in Rome being the most famous venue. Learn more about gladiators and Roman entertainment in our recommended books.