24/06/2025
Top 10 Oldest Nations in the World: Where Civilizations Were Born
A new chart from World Population Review offers a fascinating glimpse into human civilization’s roots by listing the top 10 oldest nations based on the establishment of their earliest known governments. These countries aren't just old—they’re ancient, with some stretching back over 5,000 years.
Topping the list is Iran, with its governmental roots traced back to 3200 BC, making it over 5,233 years old. Close behind is Egypt, whose legendary pharaonic rule began around 3100 BC, giving it an age of 5,123 years.
In a perhaps surprising entry to some, Vietnam claims third place with a political lineage dating back to 2879 BC, boasting an impressive age of 4,902 years. This solidifies Southeast Asia’s place in the story of early state formation. Armenia follows with 4,515 years, rooted in the ancient Kingdom of Urartu.
North Korea and China rank fifth and sixth, founded in 2333 BC and 2070 BC respectively. While China is often hailed for its ancient dynastic heritage, North Korea's placement is based on the legendary founding by Dangun, a mythical figure in Korean history.
India, with its civilizational base in the Indus Valley and later Vedic periods, is recorded at 4,023 years old. Meanwhile, Georgia, an often-overlooked cradle of ancient culture in the Caucasus region, rounds out the top eight with a governmental origin dating back to 1300 BC.
