one of the earliest civilizations in the world. It developed in the southern region of Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) around 4500 BCE. Sumer is important for several reasons:
1. Invention of Writing: Sumerians developed one of the earliest writing systems called cuneiform. This allowed them to record laws, trade transactions, and literature, making Sumer the birthplace of written language.
2. Rise of City-States: Sumerian society was organized into independent city-states, each with its own government, temple, and central authority. This marked the beginning of urban civilization and paved the way for future empires.
3. Development of Agriculture: Sumerians introduced advanced agricultural techniques, such as irrigation and the use of the plow. These innovations led to surplus food production, allowing for the growth of cities and specialization of labor.
4. Advancements in Mathematics and Astronomy: Sumerians developed a base-60 numerical system and made significant progress in mathematics, including the concept of zero. They also studied the stars and planets, leading to the development of astrology.
5. Legal System: Sumerians established a complex legal system with written laws that governed various aspects of society. This system formed the basis for future legal codes, including the famous Code of Hammurabi.
6. Trade and Commerce: Sumerians engaged in long-distance trade, connecting Mesopotamia with neighboring regions. They established trade networks and developed a sophisticated economy based on agriculture, industry, and commerce.
7. Cultural Achievements: Sumerians created a rich cultural legacy, including epic poems like the "Epic of Gilgamesh," which is considered one of the earliest known surviving literary works. They also developed complex religious beliefs and built majestic temples called ziggurats.
Overall, Sumer's contributions in writing, agriculture, mathematics, law, trade, and culture laid the foundation for subsequent civilizations and shaped the course of human history.
Sumer is important in the world history because it was
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