And furthermore, even without any calculation of the exact circumference, ancient people knew very well from simple observation that the Earth was round: Ships disappeared over the horizon starting with their hulls, and appear to sink below with their masts and sails disappearing last. This is obviously only possible if the horizon is in fact the furthest extremity we can see over a curved surface.
And furthermore, even without any calculation of the exact circumference, ancient people knew very well from simple observation that the Earth was round: Ships disappeared over the horizon starting with their hulls, and appear to sink below with their masts and sails disappearing last. This is obviously only possible if the horizon is in fact the furthest extremity we can see over a curved surface.