“Difference Between AD/BC and CE/BCE: The Modern Global Dating System”
Full Forms:
AD: Anno Domini (Latin for “In the Year of Our Lord”)
BC: Before Christ
CE: Common Era
BCE: Before Common Era
Explanation:
Originally, historians used BC and AD to label years based on the estimated birth of Jesus Christ. However, to make the dating system more neutral and inclusive, scholars introduced BCE and CE, which follow the same numerical timeline but avoid religious references.
Recent Change:
In modern academic, scientific, and global contexts, CE/BCE is now more commonly used instead of AD/BC. Most international organizations, textbooks, and museums prefer the Common Era format to promote cultural and religious neutrality while keeping the same calendar structure.