What technological advancements were created by each civilization in sumer

Answer 1

Sumer, one of the earliest known civilizations, emerged in the southern part of Mesopotamia around 4500 BCE. It made significant advancements across various fields. Here are some key technological advancements attributed to the Sumerians:

1. Cuneiform Writing: The Sumerians developed one of the earliest writing systems, cuneiform, around 3200 BCE. This was inscribed on clay tablets using a stylus, allowing for the recording of language, administrative records, and literature.

2. The Wheel: The Sumerians are credited with inventing the wheel around 3500 BCE. This pivotal invention revolutionized transport and trade and was also utilized in pottery making.

3. Irrigation Systems: They developed sophisticated irrigation techniques, including canals and levees, to manage the flow of water from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, which helped increase agricultural productivity.

4. Mathematics and Geometry: The Sumerians contributed significantly to mathematics, developing a base-60 number system, which is still reflected in our measurement of time (60 seconds, 60 minutes) and angles (360 degrees).

5. Astronomy: Sumerians practiced astronomy and developed calendars based on lunar cycles, establishing a systematic approach to tracking celestial bodies, which influenced later civilizations.

6. Arch and Dome Construction: They advanced architectural techniques, including the use of arches and domes, enabling the construction of complex structures like temples and ziggurats.

7. Pottery and Bronze Tools: The development of pottery wheels improved pottery production, and the Sumerians were among the first to work with bronze, leading to advancements in tools and weapons.

8. Urban Planning: The Sumerians established some of the first urban centers, with organized layouts that included residential areas, marketplaces, and monumental buildings.

9. Medicinal Practices: They practiced early medicine, using various herbs and treatments, and documented medical knowledge on clay tablets.

10. Trade Systems: The Sumerians developed complex trade systems, which included the use of standardized weights and measures to facilitate commerce.

These advancements laid the foundation for future civilizations and had a lasting impact on various aspects of human development.