This document summarizes the ancient beliefs that led early humans to conceive of gods and goddesses that possessed supernatural powers and attributes. Early humans felt fear and uncertainty about natural phenomena they did not understand, like storms. They imagined powerful beings like Zeus and Poseidon that could control the forces of nature. The gods were depicted as immortal, eternally youthful beings who lived on Mount Olympus and had powers far beyond humans, but also shared some human traits and needs. They provided early humans a sense of protection and order in the universe.