Mesopotamia (Sumerians, first civilization on earth)

Mesopotamia is often called the “cradle of civilisation” because it is where some of the earliest complex human societies developed.

📍 Where was Mesopotamia?

Mesopotamia was located in the region between the Tigris River and the Euphrates River, mostly in present-day Iraq, with parts in Syria and Turkey.

🏺 The Sumerians – First Civilisation

The Sumerians are widely considered the first true civilisation (around 3500 BCE).

🔑 Key Achievements

• Cities: Built some of the world’s first cities like
  • Ur
  • Uruk
• Writing System: Invented Cuneiform, one of the earliest forms of writing.
• Government: Created early forms of organized government and kingship.
• Technology: Developed the wheel, plow, and irrigation systems.
• Religion: Practiced polytheism (belief in many gods).

🌾 Why Mesopotamia Was Important

• Fertile land due to river flooding → good for agriculture
• Allowed surplus food → growth of cities and specialization
• Trade and communication developed early

🧠 Why They’re Called the “First Civilisation.”

The Sumerians had all the key features of a civilization:

• Urban centers
• Writing
• Government
• Religion
• Social structure
• Technology