How did the Sumerian civilization develop? The Sumerian civilization, one of the oldest civilizations in human history, emerged in the region of Mesopotamia, located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in modern-day Iraq. This ancient civilization, which dates back to around 4500 BCE, laid the foundation for many of the world’s earliest known achievements in various fields such as agriculture, writing, mathematics, and governance. In this article, we will explore the factors and events that contributed to the development of the Sumerian civilization.
The fertile land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, known as the Fertile Crescent, provided the ideal conditions for the Sumerians to develop a successful agricultural society. The region’s fertile soil, coupled with the rivers’ annual flooding, allowed the Sumerians to cultivate crops such as wheat and barley, which formed the basis of their diet. This agricultural prosperity led to the growth of settlements and the establishment of trade networks with neighboring regions.
One of the most significant contributions of the Sumerian civilization was the development of writing. Around 3200 BCE, the Sumerians created the cuneiform script, one of the earliest known writing systems. This script was used to record trade transactions, administrative documents, and religious texts. The development of writing allowed the Sumerians to preserve knowledge and share information, which contributed to the advancement of their civilization.
Another crucial factor in the development of the Sumerian civilization was the invention of mathematics. The Sumerians developed a number system based on the sexagesimal (base-60) system, which is still used today in measuring time and angles. They also made significant advancements in arithmetic and geometry, which helped in the planning and construction of buildings and irrigation systems.
The Sumerians were also known for their sophisticated governance structures. The city-states that comprised the Sumerian civilization were governed by kings who were considered divine. These kings were responsible for maintaining order, organizing trade, and overseeing the construction of public works. The Sumerian legal system was also one of the earliest known, with laws being inscribed on clay tablets.
The Sumerian civilization faced several challenges throughout its existence, including frequent conflicts with neighboring peoples and environmental factors such as droughts and floods. Despite these challenges, the Sumerians managed to create a highly advanced civilization that laid the groundwork for future developments in the region.
In conclusion, the Sumerian civilization developed due to a combination of favorable environmental conditions, the invention of writing and mathematics, and the establishment of effective governance structures. The achievements of the Sumerians have had a lasting impact on the world, as their contributions in various fields continue to influence modern society.
