Final answer:
The principal founders of Western civilization primarily include the Ancient Greeks and Romans, who contributed significantly to various aspects of culture, government, and philosophy. However, crucial elements of Western civilization also originated from earlier societies in Mesopotamia and Egypt.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principal founders of Western civilization are often debated but typically include the Ancient Greeks and Romans. Both cultures significantly shaped Western civilization in numerous ways with contributions ranging from forms of government, philosophy, and the arts. The contribution of the ancient Greeks to Western philosophy is notable, with figures such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle laying the groundwork for Western philosophy and political science. Similarly, the Roman Empire extended Greek ideas and culture throughout its vast territories, leaving a lasting intellectual and political legacy. However, it's essential to recognize that many achievements attributed to these cultures, including scientific inquiry, engineering, and mathematics, have their origins in earlier civilizations like Mesopotamia and Egypt, the so-called cradle of Western Civilization. These regions provided fundamental technologies and ideas that came to define Western Civilization.