Ancient Mesopotamia

Location

Mesopotamia is located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in modern-day Iraq.

Time Period

Mesopotamia flourished around 3500-500 BCE.

Economy

The economy of Mesopotamia was based on agriculture, trade, and craftsmanship.

Ziggurat

A ziggurat served as a religious and administrative center, characterized by its step-like structure with multiple tiers.

Religion

Mesopotamians were polytheistic, worshipping multiple gods.

Writing Method

The writing method used in Mesopotamia is called cuneiform, which was inscribed on clay tablets.

Major Leader - Sargon I

Sargon I is known for establishing the first empire in Mesopotamia.

Major Leader - Hammurabi

Hammurabi is famous for the Code of Hammurabi, a significant legal code.

Social Organization

Mesopotamian society was organized into levels including kings, priests, merchants, farmers, and slaves.

Treatment of Women

Men and women had different rights and roles within Mesopotamian society.

Achievements

Key achievements of Mesopotamia include advancements in writing, mathematics, astronomy, and irrigation.

Trade Goods

Mesopotamia traded textiles, grains, and crafts, while receiving timber, stone, and metals.