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Civilization in Mesopotamia

Discover the rich history of Mesopotamia with its innovative inventions like irrigation systems and sailboats, unique architecture such as ziggurats, and structured government. Explore the divisions in society, advancements in economy, and groundbreaking innovations that shaped this ancient civilization.

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Civilization in Mesopotamia

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  1. Civilization in Mesopotamia By Mr. Fitz

  2. New Inventions • Irrigation * Canals, aqueducts, reservoirs, dikes, gates • Wheel – wheeled cart • First sailboats

  3. Architecture and Religious Beliefs • Ziggurat – Largest building in Sumerian city (mud brick temple) • Shrine for each city’s special god on top. • Gods of wind, sun, salt water, fresh water, earth. • If pleased gods=good harvest • Natural disasters=gods were angry

  4. The Role of Government • Laws are needed to keep order when many people live together. • Government = organized system that groups use to make laws and decisions. • Each city-state had its own leaders • City-states went to war with each other and outsiders • Monarchy=One person has authority • Rulers were thought to have great strength, because were “chosen by the gods.” (Gilgamesh)

  5. Changing Economies • Sumerian Farms grew a surplus of crops. • Since everyone did not have to farm for food, Sumerians developed Division of Labor=craft workers in stone, clay, cloth, leather, metal. • Managers and Merchants • Traded throughout the Fertile Crescent

  6. Divisions in Society • Social Classes based on levels of importance • Kings and Priests (most important) • Scribes • Managers, merchants, craft workers • Farmers and Fisherman • Slaves (usually prisoners of war-lowest on the scale) • Men had more authority, although Women did hold leadership positions

  7. Innovations • New ways of doing things • Need to measure land – “Iku” or Acre • Need to measure crops – “Quart” • Need to carry/trade goods – sail and cargo boats. • Need for records – writing “Cuneiform” – complete system by 2000 BCE on clay tablets with reeds.

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