Discover the Top 15 Oldest Countries in the World

Ever thought about which countries have the longest histories? From Mesopotamia's early days to the ancient empires of the East, our world is filled with nations with deep roots. Exploring the top 15 oldest countries shows us a mix of cultures that stretch back thousands of years and cross continents. Join us as we travel through time to learn about these ancient empires and their ongoing impact on our world.

Key Takeaways

• The kingdom of D'mt in Ethiopia rose to power around the 10th century BC¹.
• China's archaeological records date back over 3,000 years to the Shang Dynasty¹.
• Japan's civilization can be traced to pottery from around 16,000 years ago¹.
• Armenia became the first officially Christian country in the world in 301 AD¹.
• San Marino, founded in 301 AD, is the world's oldest surviving republic¹.

top 2. India

India is one of the oldest civilizations in the world, with a history that goes back thousands of years². It started with the Indus Valley Civilization around 3300 BCE². This country is famous for its spiritual, philosophical, and scientific achievements, making it one of the oldest countries².

Even with a big population, India has fewer elderly people compared to other countries³. Only 6.1% of its people are 65 or older, showing it's a young country³. But, it has a lot of older adults, with 84.9 million people aged 65 and up, close to China's number³.

India has seen many lasting empires and cultures over its history. From the Maurya and Gupta dynasties to the Mughal rule, each left a mark on its culture and architecture². Today, its cultural heritage is celebrated through UNESCO World Heritage sites, showing its lasting impact on world history.

History

India's history goes back to the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the earliest cities in the world². This civilization was known for its advanced urban planning and architecture². Its legacy still shapes India's culture and global influence.

Over time, India has seen many empires and dynasties, adding to its cultural mix². The Maurya and Gupta Empires brought unity and a golden age of culture and science². The Mughal Empire, from the 16th to the 19th century, influenced India's architecture, art, and food, making it a cultural center².

Today, India's ancient history and cultures still amaze the world, with sites like the Taj Mahal and Ajanta Caves attracting millions². Its long history shows the resilience and adaptability of its people, keeping their rich culture alive²³⁴.

top 3. Armenia

History

Armenia has a long and rich history, starting with its kingdom in 600 BC under the Orontid dynasty⁵. It went through many dynasties until 428 AD. During 83 to 69 BC, under Tigranes the Great, Armenia was a leading kingdom⁵. It's also known for being the first country to adopt Christianity in 301 AD⁵.

The 20th century was hard for Armenia, with the Ottoman government killing 1.5 million Armenians in 1915, known as the Armenian Genocide⁵. Turkey, the Ottoman Empire's successor, doesn't call it a genocide. But many governments worldwide do⁵.

Now, Armenia is a strong and culturally rich nation. It's mostly Armenian, with Yazidis and Russians living there too⁶. Most people, 96.7%, are Christian, mainly Armenian Apostolic⁶.

Armenia's economy is growing, with a GDP of $64.432 billion in 2024, ranking 114th globally⁶. It has a per capita GDP of $21,746, ranking 77th globally⁶. In 2024, its nominal GDP is $25.408 billion, ranking 115th, with a per capita GDP of $8,575, ranking 84th⁶. Armenia's Human Development Index (HDI) in 2022 was 0.786, making it a high-development country, ranking 76th globally⁶.

Armenia's history, culture, and long-standing status as a sovereign state make it fascinating for those interested in ancient civilizations and nation origins⁵. Its strength in the face of challenges and its ongoing importance today highlight its historical significance⁵.

top 4. Iraq

Iraq is a nation rich in ancient civilizations and historical significance. It's one of the oldest countries globally. Its history goes back to the Mesopotamian empires that thrived thousands of years ago. This makes Iraq a key place in antiquity.

History

Iraq became a sovereign state in 1932, gaining independence from the United Kingdom⁷. But its story goes way back to ancient times. The country officially became sovereign on October 3, 1932⁷, marking a big step in its venerable history.

Before gaining independence, Iraq was under British mandate after World War I. It went through many changes over the years⁷. The country's current form of government was established in 1932⁷.

Iraq's history is filled with the rise and fall of enduring empires. Civilizations like the Sumerian, Akkadian, Babylonian, and Assyrian left a lasting cultural legacy⁸. With its rich archaeological sites and ancient landmarks, Iraq shows the longevity of nations and the resilience of historical cultures.

"Iraq's history is a tapestry of ancient civilizations, primordial empires, and the founding of nations that have left an indelible mark on the world."

Today, Iraq is a symbol of its ancestral lands and the resilience of its people. Its GPI Score of 2.91⁸ shows the country's complex history and challenges. But it also highlights the unwavering spirit that has kept it going through time⁸⁷⁹.

top 5. China

China is one of the oldest countries in the world, showing how long some nations last¹⁰. It has a history over 5,000 years old, starting with the Xia Dynasty around 2070 B.C¹⁰. This makes it one of the longest-running civilizations on Earth. China is home to over a billion people from many ethnic groups, surviving through time and leaving a big mark on history.

China's history is full of different dynasties, each adding to its cultural story. From the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600–1046 BC) to the Qin Dynasty's unification (221-206 BC), China's history shows the lasting power of ancient civilizations¹⁰. The Great Wall, built during the Warring States period (475-221 BC) and made bigger by Emperor Qin Shihuang, symbolizes China's defense strength and its commitment to protecting its borders.

Being one of the oldest countries shows China's resilience, creativity, and rich culture¹⁰. Its famous heritage sites and traditions still amaze and inspire people worldwide. China is a living example of ancient history, with a big impact on the world. Its lasting presence shows the strength and spirit of its people¹⁰.

top 6.Greece

Greece is one of the oldest countries, dating back to around 4500 BC. It's a key part of ancient civilizations⁹. The country played a big role in Western culture, thanks to cities like Athens and Sparta¹¹. Sites like the Parthenon and Sparta's ruins are famous for their history and culture¹¹.

Greece's history is split into different periods, each adding to its lasting impact. The Archaic period led to the Classical period, a time of big leaps in art, architecture, and thought¹². Athens became a hub of culture and ideas, home to thinkers like Socrates and Plato.

Greece's culture has shaped many parts of today's society, from democracy to Greek mythology¹². Its history and sites draw millions of visitors, boosting tourism and showing the lasting impact of ancient Greece¹¹.

The Enduring Legacy of Greece

Greece's impact on the world is still strong today. The Parthenon in Athens shows the skill and creativity of its people¹¹. Greek philosophy, focusing on reason and knowledge, has deeply influenced Western thought¹².

Greece also helped shape modern government with its democratic ideas from ancient Athens¹². Its history and culture continue to fascinate scholars and travelers, proving its lasting influence⁹¹²¹¹.

top 7. Mexico

Mexico's Enduring History

Mexico's story goes way back to the Mesoamerican civilizations before Europeans came. The Olmec, Maya, Toltec, and Aztec built great cities and empires. These cultures left a lasting mark¹³.

The Olmec started in the Gulf Coast around 1200 B.C¹³. The Zapotec built Monte Albán, a city of 10,000 people by 100 B.C¹³. Teotihuacán was at its best from 100 B.C. to 700 A.D., with 200,000 people¹³.

When the Spanish came in the 16th century, the Aztec Empire was huge, stretching from the Pacific to the Gulf Coast. It had about 5 million people¹³. But the Spanish brought diseases that killed 24 million indigenous people¹³. Mexico became independent in 1821 and is now a modern nation with over 103 million people¹³.

Today, Mexico's culture is alive in cities like Mexico City, with over 8.7 million people¹⁴. Other big cities include Ecatepec de Morelos, Guadalajara, and more¹³. Its economy is strong, with a mix of industry, natural resources, and services¹³.

"Mexico's history is a tapestry of ancient cultures, enduring empires, and a proud, resilient people who have shaped the course of this remarkable nation."

top 8. Japan

Japan's history is filled with ancient civilizations and rich traditions. It has a long history that has amazed the world. The country's story goes back to 16,000 years ago, with the first pottery¹⁵. It is known as the oldest continuous monarchy, starting in 660 B.C.E¹⁵.

Japan first appeared in Chinese history texts in the 1st century AD¹⁵. For 217 years, from 1635-1852, Japan closed itself off to the world, known as the Sakoku Edict¹⁵. Yet, its culture kept growing, with Shinto and Buddhism being key to its identity¹⁵.

Japan's ability to last through time is amazing. It has seen many changes and is now a leading nation⁹. Its story shows how ancient civilizations can greatly influence human history⁹.

"Japan is not only one of the oldest countries in the world, but it is also one of the most culturally and historically significant, with a legacy that has endured for millennia."

Exploring Japan's history reveals ancient landmarks and traditions that still inspire us today⁹. Its story is a powerful example of human resilience and adaptability⁹¹⁶.

top 9. San Marino

San Marino is a tiny nation in Southern Europe, known for its long history. It claims to be the oldest surviving republic in the world. This country's history goes back to ancient times, showing us the cultural and historical impact of ancient civilizations.

The Founding of San Marino: A Legend in the Making

Legend says San Marino was started on September 3, 301 AD by Marinus de Rab, a stonemason. He came to this rocky spot to escape persecution. This place became a community that grew into the world's oldest sovereign state¹⁷.

San Marino is also a UNESCO world heritage site, known for its culture and landmarks¹⁸.

Today, San Marino is home to about 35,000 people, with its capital being Dogana¹⁷. Most of its people, 91.5%, are Christian. The rest don't follow any religion, and a small group belongs to other faiths¹⁷.

San Marino is economically strong, ranking high in Europe for income per person¹⁷. Tourism, Rimini's port, and making electronics and ceramics help its economy¹⁷.

San Marino's history, culture, and economy show its lasting place as one of the oldest nations. It's a symbol of nations' long lives and their beginnings in Europe¹⁸¹⁹.

"San Marino is a living museum, a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the human spirit. Its ancient origins and enduring legacy continue to captivate visitors from around the world."

top 10. Vietnam

Vietnam has a long and interesting history that goes back thousands of years²⁰. It is one of the top 15 oldest countries, with a history dating back to 2879 BC²⁰. This country has seen many changes over time, keeping its unique culture through it all.

The first known civilization in Vietnam was the Dong Son culture, from 700 BC to 200 AD²⁰. Over time, Vietnam was ruled by China, France, and Japan before becoming independent in 1954²⁰. Despite many challenges, Vietnam has become a strong and vibrant nation, keeping its cultural roots and connection to its land.

History

Vietnam's history shows a long continuity, with humans living there for thousands of years²⁰. It was known as Siam until 1939 and again from 1945 to 1949, showing its complex history²⁰. Vietnam has always been able to adapt and keep its traditions and values through the years.

The modern Vietnamese state started in the 10th century, gaining independence from China²¹. Vietnam faced many invasions and occupations, from the Mongols to the French, before gaining independence in 1954²¹. The Vietnamese people have always fought hard to keep their country and culture.

Today, Vietnam is a lively nation with over 97 million people²². People there live an average of 74.74 years, with women living a bit longer than men²². Vietnam's life expectancy is high compared to some neighbors like the Philippines and Indonesia²².

Vietnam's history and culture make it one of the oldest countries in the world²⁰. Its ability to overcome challenges shows the strength and flexibility of this ancient civilization²⁰. Vietnam remains a key part of the world, showing us the origins and lasting nature of nations²⁰²¹²².

top 11. Armenia

Armenia is a country in the Caucasus region, known for its long history. It was established in 600 BC and became a powerful kingdom. It's also the first country to make Christianity its official religion in 301 AD²³.

The Armenian people have faced hard times, like the Armenian Genocide in 1915. This event led to the death of about 1.5 million Armenians. Yet, Armenia has kept going and became independent in 1991 after the Soviet Union fell²⁴.

A Resilient and Enduring Nation

Armenia's culture and spirit show how ancient civilizations can last. Historian Movses Khorenatsi says Armenia was founded in 2492 BC, making it very old²³²⁵.

Armenia is also known for its beautiful nature and historical sites. These have been recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites²⁵. Places like Lake Sevan and Aras River show its lasting beauty²⁵.

"Armenia has over 15 soil types, including those rich in nitrogen, potash, and phosphates, making it a land of great agricultural potential."

²⁵

Armenia has faced many challenges but still stands as a symbol of ancient strength. It's one of the oldest countries, and its history and culture touch people worldwide²³²⁵²⁴.

top 12. North Korea

North Korea is one of the oldest countries in the world. It has a long history that goes back thousands of years¹⁰. This country has kept its unique culture and venerable histories through tough times.

History

The Korean Peninsula has seen many ancient kingdoms and empires for thousands of years⁷. Early Neolithic people lived there as far back as 8000 BC. Later, kingdoms like Gojoseon, Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla rose and fell, leaving a deep history.

In the late 1800s, Japan influenced the Korean Peninsula, making it part of Japan in 1910. After Japan lost World War II, Korea was split into a communist north and a capitalist south. North Korea was formed in 1948⁷.

North Korea faced the Korean War and years of strict rule. Yet, it kept its unique culture and long history as one of the oldest civilizations¹⁰.

"North Korea's history shows how its ancient cultures and lands have endured."

North Korea's politics and society are still changing. But its deep history and the founding of its nations are key to its identity²⁶¹⁰⁷.

top 13. Georgia

Georgia has a long and rich history, with people living there over² 3,000 years². It started with the ancient kingdoms of Colchis in the 6th century BC². Located at the edge of Eastern Europe and Western Asia², Georgia was shaped by empires like the Persian, Byzantine, and Ottoman².

Georgia kept its own culture and language despite outside influences². In the 19th century, Russia took over Georgia, but it became independent in 1918 after the Russian Revolution². It was part of the Soviet Union from 1921 to 1991, then became independent again².

Today, Georgia is one of the oldest countries in the world, with a long-lasting culture². Places like the historic city of Tbilisi and its heritage sites show its strong spirit².

Ranking	Country	Percentage of Population Ages 65 and Above
10	Georgia	14.4%27

As the world faces aging, countries like Georgia remind us of the strength and resilience of old civilizations².

"Georgia has a cultural heritage spanning over 3,000 years."²

top 14. Sudan

Sudan is a nation with a history that goes back thousands of years²⁸. People have lived there since prehistoric times, with advanced civilizations starting as early as the 8th millennium BC²⁸. Over time, Sudan was ruled by many empires, including ancient Egypt, the Kushite Kingdom, and others²⁸.

Despite foreign rule, Sudan kept its own culture and played a big role in Northeast Africa's history²⁸. World Population Review doesn't mention Sudan's self-sovereignty, but it's known as one of the oldest countries with a government since 1070 BCE²⁸.

Sudan's long history and cultural richness show the deep roots of African culture²⁸. With 43.85 million people²⁹, Sudan is a key player in the region, thanks to its historical significance.

Country	Independence Date	Population (in millions)
Mali	September 22, 1960	20.25
Togo	April 27, 1960	8.279
Senegal	April 4, 1960	16.74
Cameroon	January 1, 1960	26.55
Guinea	October 2, 1958	11.0
Ghana	March 6, 1957	31.07
Tunisia	March 20, 1956	11.56
Morocco	March 2, 1956	37.0
Sudan	January 1, 1956	43.85
Libya	December 24, 1951	6.871
Ethiopia	May 5, 1941	115.0

The table shows the independence dates and populations of African countries, highlighting their diverse histories²⁹. Sudan is one of the oldest countries, with a history over a millennium old²⁸.

Sudan's ancient roots and lasting culture show its strength and long history²⁸. Its ancient landmarks and sites make it a key place for exploring the world's oldest civilizations.

top 15. Iran

Iran, once called Persia, is home to one of the oldest civilizations, starting with the kingdom of Elam in 2800 BC³⁰. The first signs of life in Persia go back over 100,000 years to the Paleolithic era³⁰. By 5000 BC, Persia had advanced farming and early cities³⁰.

The Achaemenid Empire, led by Cyrus the Great in 550 BC, was at its peak³⁰. It was huge, covering parts of the ancient world from the Indus Valley to Greece³⁰.

Today, Iran is the 110th oldest country, with 33.8% of its population aging by 2024³¹. It's younger than Japan, Italy, and Germany, but still aging faster than the world average³¹.

Iran has 89,817,957 people as of July 6, 2024, living in a dense area³². About 74.2% live in cities, with a median age of 33.0 years³². It's the 17th most populous country, making up 1.11% of the world's people³².

Iran is a treasure of culture and history, standing as one of the oldest countries³⁰³¹³². Its ancient landmarks and history show its lasting impact on the world.

Conclusion

The world is home to some of the oldest³³ countries with rich histories and cultures. Countries like Egypt, India, and China³³ have seen empires rise and fall. They've watched human societies change over thousands of years³³.

By looking into the origins of these¹⁰ countries, we learn about their past. We see how they've survived through time and kept their cultures alive¹⁰.

These oldest countries¹⁰ show us the strength of humanity. They've adapted and thrived for centuries. From ancient sites¹⁰ to modern tech, they keep inspiring us¹⁰.

Exploring the top 15 oldest countries¹⁰ shows us our global heritage. It teaches us about the beginnings of these nations¹⁰. We see the beauty of human culture and the strength of the oldest nations¹⁰.

FAQ

What are some of the oldest countries in the world?

Egypt, Ethiopia, India, China, Armenia, Iran, and Greece are among the oldest countries. They have rich histories that go back thousands of years.

When did the ancient civilization of Egypt emerge?

Egypt's history goes back to the 10th century BC with the kingdom of D'mt. Yet, it was under foreign rule for so long that its original culture was almost lost.

What is the history of Ethiopia as one of the oldest countries in the world?

Ethiopia's history starts with the kingdom of D'mt in the 10th century BC. It's the only African country never colonized. It's also one of the oldest places where humans lived.

When did the ancient civilization of India begin?

India's history is over 3,000 years old, dating back to the Shang Dynasty. It's a country with a diverse culture and many dynasties throughout its history.

What is the history of the ancient kingdom of Armenia?

Armenia was founded in 600 BC under the Orontid dynasty. It reached its peak in 83-69 BC under Tigranes, the Great. In 301, it became the first Christian country.

When did the ancient civilization of Iran (Persia) begin?

Iran, known as Persia, started with the kingdom of Elam in 2800 BC. Its history includes the Paleolithic era and the Achaemenid Empire, founded by Cyrus the Great in 550 BC.

What is the history of the ancient civilization of China?

China's history is over 3,000 years old, starting with the Shang Dynasty. It has had many dynasties, ending with the republic in 1912.

What is the history of ancient Greece?

Greece's classical period has greatly influenced its present. It's known for its art, culture, and technology. Greece is considered one of the most forward-thinking countries.

When did the ancient civilization of Mexico begin?

Mexico's history includes the Olmec, Maya, Toltec, and Aztec civilizations. These societies were advanced before European contact. Since gaining independence in 1821, Mexico has seen many changes.

What is the history of ancient Japan?

Japan's history goes back to pottery from 16,000 years ago. It was first mentioned in 1st century AD Chinese texts. From 1635-1852, Japan isolated itself with the Sadoku Edict, limiting foreign contact.

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