Before Common Era (BCE) refers to a dating system used to denote events that occurred before the year 1 CE (Common Era), replacing the traditional Anno Domini (AD) dating system, which is based on the birth of Jesus Christ. The term BCE is typically utilized by historians, archaeologists, and scholars, particularly from non-Christian religious backgrounds or those wanting a more neutral and inclusive notation.
BCE is essentially an abbreviation for Before the Common Era, and it serves the purpose of providing a secular alternative to the religious terminology used in the AD system. The Common Era, as opposed to the Christian-dominated Anno Domini era, signifies a more inclusive dating method meant to be applicable across cultures and faiths.
By using BCE, scholars aim to maintain historical consistency, eliminating the bias associated with religious connotations. This system acknowledges that the world's diverse civilizations possess their own rich historical narratives, irrespective of religious beliefs.
The BCE dating system operates similarly to the AD system, with the year 1 BCE being followed by 1 CE. Additionally, the counting of years remains continuous, with each number incremented by one annually. Consequently, dates represented as BCE decrease towards the past while CE dates progress towards the present.
In summary, Before Common Era (BCE) is a secular dating system that designates events prior to the year 1 CE. It offers a neutral alternative to the religious terminology of the Anno Domini (AD) system, allowing for a more inclusive representation of history and ensuring scholarly objectivity.
