Ancient Mesopotamia: Society and Culture
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Questions and Answers

What was the primary purpose of praying to Ninkilim, the goddess of field mice and vermin, in ancient Mesopotamia?

  • To receive favorable loans from wealthy families.
  • To ensure safe passage for caravans.
  • To guarantee a bountiful harvest by protecting crops. (correct)
  • To seek protection from devastating floods and sandstorms.

Which of the following best describes the fate of ancient Mesopotamian families when a trader was unable to repay a loan from a wealthy family?

  • The wealthy family would seize the trader's merchandise.
  • The family members could be sold into slavery to settle the debt. (correct)
  • The trader would be exiled from the city.
  • The trader was required to perform community service.

What role did Enheduanna, King Sargon's daughter, play in ancient Mesopotamian history?

  • She was one of the first known authors, writing hymns to the gods. (correct)
  • She created the ilkum program.
  • She was a prominent merchant.
  • She was a military leader.

How did ancient Mesopotamians adapt their agricultural practices to protect delicate crops from the intense sun?

<p>By constructing shade gardens where tall trees sheltered the crops. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What evidence from the tombs of Ur provides insight into ancient Mesopotamian culture?

<p>Elaborate jewelry adorned on Queen Puabi and her sacrificed attendants. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What community service did participants in the Babylonian 'ilkum' program perform in exchange for plots of land?

<p>Serving in the army or constructing temples. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are reliefs, commonly commissioned by Mesopotamian kings, primarily used to depict?

<p>Victories in battle and hunts. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How were most ancient Mesopotamian slaves typically obtained?

<p>As spoils of war from captured citizens of rival cities or to pay off debt. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of goods were commonly transported by Mesopotamian traders?

<p>The text doesn't specify, but mentions some were forbidden (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How were ancient Mesopotamian peasents able to survive?

<p>By living off of wild fish and birds (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary function of most slaves owned by temples in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>Performing community service tasks. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

From where does a majority of our understanding of ancient Mesopotamia come?

<p>Inscriptions on cuneiform tablets found in sacred places. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Assyrian kings use psychological warfare to manipulate their enemies?

<p>By committing gruesome acts of violence and displaying the victims. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the discovery of Queen Puabi's tomb at Ur reveal about ancient Mesopotamian culture?

<p>Jewelry held significant cultural importance. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the basis for astronomical observations and decisions in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>Astrology and the belief that gods dwelled in the sky. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of foot soldiers in ancient Mesopotamian warfare?

<p>Storming city walls and engaging in close combat. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a lasting legacy of the Mesopotamian number system that is still reflected in modern society?

<p>The division of an hour into 60 minutes and a circle into 360 degrees. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the typical origin of slaves in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>Captured citizens from rival cities or individuals selling themselves to pay off debt. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why would Mesopotamian farmers pray to Ninkilim after planting crops?

<p>To request protection of their harvest from field mice and vermin. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the Code of Hammurabi's stance on helping slaves escape?

<p>It imposed the death penalty on anyone who assisted a slave in escaping. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the main purpose of the first courts established in early Babylonia?

<p>To settle disputes between citizens. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to ancient Mesopotamian beliefs, what was the consequence of neglecting the gods?

<p>Tragedy, disease, and famine. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did ancient Mesopotamians primarily use units of grains and silver?

<p>As currency for economic transactions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did omens play in the decision-making processes of ancient Mesopotamians?

<p>Omens were interpreted as signs of the gods' intentions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which geographical feature was most crucial to the development of agriculture in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>Location between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the role of 'big men' evolve in ancient Mesopotamian society?

<p>They transitioned from military leaders in times of war to the first kings. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In ancient Mesopotamia, what was a typical consequence for traders who failed to repay loans from wealthy families?

<p>Their families could be taken into slavery to repay the debt. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary function of artworks produced in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>To honor kings and gods, and to be treasured by wealthy individuals. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary function of Mesopotamian temples in addition to religious worship?

<p>Acting as centers for trade and economic activity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the Code of Hammurabi address differences in social status?

<p>It was more protective of the rights and interests of the wealthy than the poor. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Mesopotamian religious beliefs influence their view of kings?

<p>Kings were believed to be mortals chosen by the gods. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did cuneiform tablets play in understanding Mesopotamian society, particularly regarding trade?

<p>They offered insights into trade practices, merchant activities, and economic transactions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What discovery provided significant insights into trade and merchant activities in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>The excavation of the lost city of Kanesh containing thousands of cuneiforms. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the tombs of Ur in understanding ancient Mesopotamian culture?

<p>They provided insights into jewelry and its cultural importance, as evidenced by the adornments of Queen Puabi and her sacrificed attendants. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the practice of burying grave goods reflect the social structure of ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>It demonstrated social hierarchies, with the wealthy and powerful buried with more valuable items. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the ancient Mesopotamians view the role and needs of their gods?

<p>They believed that gods had the same needs as humans, such as housing, food, and water. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the tradition of kings commissioning reliefs (flat sculptures) contribute to our understanding of their reigns?

<p>They acted as propaganda, commemorating the kings' achievements and power. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What motivated Mesopotamian city-states to select 'big men' as leaders?

<p>To lead during times of war and conflicts. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary role of kings in ancient Mesopotamian society?

<p>To ensure the well-being of their citizens. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did foreign trade influence the economy and culture of ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>It facilitated the exchange of goods and ideas, fostering cultural development. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In ancient Mesopotamia, what was the basis for the principle of the 'Golden Rule' in legal and ethical matters?

<p>Individuals were subjected to the same crime or offense they committed. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the typical method of imparting craft knowledge and skills in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>Craft knowledge was generally passed down from father to son but were sometimes enscripped on tablets that were hidden for the gods only. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider the Code of Hammurabi. What primary purpose did law serve in Mesopotamian society?

<p>To ensure social justice and maintain order, reflecting a divine mandate. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides settling disputes, what other role did city councils play in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>Advising kings and high ranked beaurocrats on matters of governance. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the development of irrigation systems impact the growth and sustainability of Mesopotamian villages?

<p>Irrigation increased agricultural productivity, allowing villages to thrive. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Tower of Babel (a ziggurat) in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>It was a grand temple symbolizing religious devotion and architectural achievement. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did successful traders demonstrate their affluence and elevated social status in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>By living in lavish multiple-story homes instead of the typical one-story dwellings. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the diverse roles of the Mesopotamian temples impact its surrounding community?

<p>The temples provided essential communal services such as caring for the poor, which integrated it into community life. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Sargon of Akkad's unification of northern and southern Mesopotamia impact the region's political landscape?

<p>It established a centralized empire, consolidating power under a single ruler. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is Mesopotamia referred to as the 'cradle of civilization'?

<p>Because it was the site of the earliest known agricultural practices and complex societies. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary purpose of burying the deceased with grave goods in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>To provide the deceased with necessities and comforts for a successful afterlife. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did ancient Mesopotamians address the challenge of growing delicate crops in a hot climate?

<p>They created shade gardens where taller trees shielded delicate plants from direct sunlight. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did temples play in the economic and social life of ancient Mesopotamian cities?

<p>Temples were the heart of the city, providing social services, economic opportunities, and religious functions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did ancient Mesopotamians explain the origin and treatment of illnesses?

<p>Illnesses were believed to be punishments from the gods for sins and could be treated with magic and rituals. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the discovery of Queen Puabi's tomb in Ur reveal about the significance of jewelry in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>Jewelry was a symbol of wealth, status, and religious devotion, worn even in death. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did ancient Mesopotamian farmers prepare their fields to ensure a successful harvest?

<p>They dampened their fields and planted seeds an equal distance apart, requiring months of preparation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of cylinder seals in ancient Mesopotamian society?

<p>They were used to seal legal and private documents, bearing personalized designs and inscriptions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the ancient Mesopotamians' view of the earth influence their mapmaking?

<p>Their belief in a flat earth resulted in maps depicting a flat disc surrounded by heavenly oceans. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did the goddess Ninkilim play in ancient Mesopotamian agriculture?

<p>She was the goddess of field mice and vermin, and farmers prayed to her for protection of their crops. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary purpose of the mathematical calculations recorded on clay tablets by ancient Mesopotamians?

<p>Calculating the areas of farming fields. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the development of bronze impact ancient Mesopotamian society?

<p>Bronze, made from copper and tin, provided a stronger metal for tools and weapons. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the construction and embellishment of the Gate of Babylon reveal about the reign of Nebuchadnezzar?

<p>Nebuchadnezzar was a powerful ruler who invested in grand construction projects and left inscriptions of his achievements. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a common origin of slaves in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>Citizens from rival cities captured during warfare. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What were Venus tablets used for in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>The tablets were used to Calculate where Venus moved and predict how it would affect the year. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What motivated Cyrus the Great to be viewed as the liberator of Babylon in 539 BC?

<p>The Babylonian ruler's surrender due to widespread hatred. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Mesopotamian artisans' skills and materials affect their social standing and the destination of their works?

<p>Skilled artisans using rare materials earned more, and their creations sometimes belonged to royalty. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did infantrymen typically play in ancient Mesopotamian armies?

<p>They were typically poor farmers who carried supplies or assisted with community services. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the ancient Mesopotamian lunar new year festival reveal about their culture and values?

<p>It was a celebration with parades, stories, food, and bustling business activity. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What cultural aspects did the Jews, exiled by Nebuchadnezzar, adopt from Mesopotamian society?

<p>Religious beliefs and legal codes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about the social structure of ancient Mesopotamia from the practice of burying kings and queens with human sacrifices?

<p>The ruler held absolute power over their subjects, including the power of life and death. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguished native-born slaves from captive slaves in ancient Mesopotamia regarding their chances of gaining freedom?

<p>Native-born slaves had a chance to gain freedom through their master's death or by repaying their debt. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the abbuttu in ancient Mesopotamian society?

<p>It was a hairstyle worn by slaves to distinguish them from free people. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did 'Asus' differ from other medical practitioners in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>They used more realistic medicine, prescribing herbal remedies on tablets. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What determined the amount of shekels/money that doctors requested from patients in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>The patient's social status and wealth. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Apart from royalty, which group in ancient Mesopotamia primarily mastered cuneiform writing?

<p>Nobles (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the main purpose of placing letters inside clay envelopes in ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>To ensure the privacy and confidentiality of the message. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did scribes play in ancient Mesopotamian schools, and why?

<p>They copied proverbs for learning, a common exercise. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Edubba' refer to in the context of ancient Mesopotamia?

<p>A school or educational institution. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one legacy or lasting impact of ancient Mesopotamia on the modern world?

<p>The inspiration for trade systems and complex civilizations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Mesopotamia

The region between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, known for fertile land and the rise of early civilizations.

Cuneiform

The first known form of writing, using wedge-shaped marks on clay tablets.

Ziggurats

Massive, stepped pyramids, serving as temples and religious centers.

City-States

Independent cities that controlled the surrounding territory, each with its own government and patron god.

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Code of Hammurabi

A set of laws compiled by Hammurabi, emphasizing strict justice and social order.

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Irrigation

The practice of supplying land with water through artificial means, crucial for agriculture in Mesopotamia.

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Polytheism

Belief in multiple gods, each with specific roles and responsibilities.

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Mesopotamian Palaces

Structures built for the royal family, officials, and servants, often grand and elaborate.

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Grave Goods

Goods or items buried with the dead to provide for them in the afterlife.

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Bartering

An early form of trade where goods and services are exchanged directly without using money.

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Temple

A place of worship and the center of religious life in ancient Mesopotamian cities.

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Dynasty

A line of rulers from the same family.

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Priest

Person who intercedes or mediates between humans and the gods.

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Mesopotamian Influence

Refers to the cultural and architectural influences that Mesopotamia had on other ancient civilizations.

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Foreign Trade

The exchange of goods and services between different regions or countries.

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Shade Gardens

Gardens where taller trees shade delicate crops, protecting them from the sun.

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Mesopotamian Courts

Early courts helped resolve conflicts among citizens.

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Grave Goods Significance

Items buried with the dead, indicating social status and wealth.

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Temple Importance

The central religious structure in each ancient Mesopotamian city.

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Flat Earth Belief

Ancient Mesopotamians believed the Earth was flat.

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Ninkilim

Goddess of field mice and vermin, prayed to for a good harvest.

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Bronze

A mix of copper and tin, used for tools.

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Illness Cause

Believed to be a divine punishment for sins.

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Mesopotamian Astronomy

Based on astrology, linking sky events to divine influence.

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Farmer Taxes

Farmers paid inflated taxes.

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Main Mesopotamian crop

Cereals (like barley) were staple foods.

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New Year

Babylonian New Year's celebration.

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Venus Tablets

Tablets used to predict Venus's movements and their effects.

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Cylinder Seals

Used to seal legal documents.

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Babylonian Courts Purpose

Early system to resolve disagreements among people.

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Mesopotamian Traders

Individuals who engaged in trade, either locally or through travel.

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King's Responsibility

Kings were responsible for the welfare and well-being of their people.

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Omens

Structures believed to reveal divine intentions through natural events.

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Tower of Babel

Most famed and important Mesopotamian temple.

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Mesopotamian Bazaars

Ancient markets similar to modern Middle Eastern markets.

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Lost City of Kanesh

Contained over 16,000 cuneiforms which taught us about trade and merchants.

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Lunar New Year

Parades, stories, food, and business marked this celebration.

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Gods necessities

Gods need housing, food, clothing and water similar to humans.

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Gate of Babylon

A beautifully crafted passage with messages inscribed by Nebuchadnezzar.

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Ancient Mesopotamian Currency

Grains and silver served as currency.

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Clay

Dominant material in ancient Mesopotamia, leading to popular pottery.

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Babylonian New Years

Religious celebration with a large scope within Babylonian society.

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City Councils

Ruling elites, high-ranked bureaucrats, kings and princes

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Who was Ninkilim?

Goddess of field mice and vermin; farmers prayed to her for healthy harvests.

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Who was Enheduanna?

King Sargon's daughter, and the first known author in Sumerian history.

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What were Mesopotamian epics?

Brave heroes, gods, and their grand adventures.

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When did the agricultural revolution begin?

Around 9000 BC.

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Challenges faced by Mesopotamian cities

Deadly floods, brutal sandstorms, terrible wars, dangerous diseases and awful natural predators.

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What were Mesopotamian Caravans?

Transporting goods using a group of animals, people, or vehicles traveling together.

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What is the Enuma Elish?

A tale about the Gods.

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What was the Ilkum program?

Offers men land in exchange for community service such as army service or building temples.

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Who was Sargon?

He created the first standing army around 2334 BC.

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Who were Mesopotamian slaves?

Were either captured citizens of rival cities or people who sold themselves to pay debt.

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Psychological warfare (Assyrian)

A tactic used by Assyrian kings involving public displays of violence to intimidate enemies.

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Tombs of Ur

These revealed insights into ancient Mesopotamian jewelry and burial practices.

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Assyrian chariots

Chariots, manned by elite soldiers, formed a crucial element of the Assyrian military.

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Praying statues/reliefs

Statues used by civilians for worship, symbolizing devotion to the Mesopotamian gods.

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Farmers

The base of the social structure; their labor sustained the population.

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Base-60 system

A numerical system that continues to influence modern timekeeping and geometry.

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Siege ramps

A method used by Assyrian armies to scale city walls during sieges.

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Mesopotamian slaves

Citizens captured during war, or people who sold themselves/their families to pay off debt.

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Lagash King's Decree

King who released debt slaves in Lagash around 2400 BC.

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Mesopotamian Calendar

A calendar system developed by ancient Mesopotamians, consisting of 12 months.

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Assyrian Psychological Warfare

Using fear to control enemies through violent displays.

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Abbuttu

A hairstyle worn by slaves to distinguish them.

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Henry Rawlinson

Discovered how to read cuneiform in the 1840s.

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Asu Doctor

Used realistic medicine and prescribed herbal remedies on tablets.

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Assurbanipal's Library

Royal library collected by Assurbanipal in Nineveh, containing 25,000 cuneiforms.

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Enheduanna's Hymns

Musical hymns to the gods written by King Sargon's daughter.

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Sumerian Proverbs

Collections of sayings copied by students as a school exercise.

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The Epic of Gilgamesh

The first great literary work.

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Enuma Elish

A well-known Mesopotamian myth about the gods.

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Mesopotamian Epics

Poems about brave heroes and gods.

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Edubba

Means school

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Scribe's Tasks

Writing royal inscriptions, laws, proclamations, and military dispatches.

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Study Notes

  • Ancient Mesopotamia existed for centuries and was buried for many years.
  • Multiple Bible stories take place within ancient Mesopotamia.
  • Grand temples and palaces were constructed by Mesopotamians.
  • Ancient Mesopotamians established their forms of government, laws, and religious beliefs.
  • The development of irrigation allowed Mesopotamian villages to prosper.
  • Home to the first farming villages.
  • Cuneiforms containing prayers, government reports, and lists of gods were discovered.
  • The first civilization originated in ancient Mesopotamia.
  • Mesopotamian empires once governed the Middle East.
  • The region sat between two rivers and within the Fertile Crescent, which was well-suited for agriculture.
  • As populations increased, so did the number of jobs, beliefs, and sophisticated civilizations.
  • The first writing system (cuneiform) was created.

Sumerian Conquest & Religion

  • Sumer was conquered around 2000 BC.
  • Religious beliefs were unique to the Mesopotamians.

Geography & Influence

  • Mesopotamia was surrounded by seas, rivers, and gulfs.
  • Nebuchadnezzar's exile of the Jews is found in the Bible.
  • Mesopotamian antics influenced many other ancient civilizations.
  • Bartering was a common practice.

Civilization

  • Mesopotamia is often called the "cradle of civilization".
  • Citizens believed kings were chosen mortals.
  • City-states often selected a leader or "big man" during wartime.
  • Grave goods reveal social hierarchies, with the wealthy buried with valuable items.
  • The remains of Ancient Mesopotamia are in modern-day Iraq.
  • Kings acted as high priests.

Kings & Temples

  • "Big men" evolved into the first kings, starting dynasties.
  • Markets were placed around temples to increase business earnings.
  • Kings ensured the well-being of their citizens, with gods promised prosperity to those who protected their villages.
  • Sargon of Akkad united northern and southern Mesopotamia.
  • The lunar new year festival featured parades, stories, food, and business.

Building Materials & Beliefs

  • Mud bricks were used for construction.
  • The Mesopotamians believed in thousands of gods ruling over different aspects of life.
  • Harrumbi of Babylon reunited Mesopotamia after Sargon's empire collapsed.
  • Foreign trade was essential for the economy, and goods were imported by land and water.
  • Sumer consisted of independent city-states and capitals.
  • Temples were central to Mesopotamian cities and honored patron gods.

Architecture & Law

  • Architecture evolved as temples became more complex.
  • Cuneiforms with lists of gods and prayers were taught in schools.
  • The Code of Hammurabi was written for the gods to bring justice.
  • The lost city of Kanesh contained over 16,000 cuneiforms, providing information about trade and merchants.
  • The Code of Hammurabi was engraved on a stone pillar.
  • The Assyrian Empire was known for its brutality and violence.
  • The Tower of Babel was the most famous ziggurat.
  • Temples provided many services, including caring for orphans and performing prayers.
  • The first courts were established to resolve disputes.

Hammurabi's Code & Trade

  • Hammurabi's code was more protective of the rich.
  • Some merchants sold door-to-door or at bazaars.
  • A lost city called Kanesh was found in the late 1800s containing about 16,000 cuneiforms with information on trade.
  • According to the bible when the Tower of Babel was being built, the builders were punished by being made to speak different languages.
  • Wealthy shoppers at bazaars purchased imported goods.
  • According to the code of Hammurabi, robbers would be put to death
  • The gate to babylon was beautiful, colorful, and messages written by nebuchdrezzar
  • Ancient Mesopotamians used units of grain and silver as money.
  • In ancient Mesopotamia, the golden rule was seriously taken. If one committed a crime, that same crime would be done to them.
  • Art was produced mostly in temples and sold near other businesses offering the same goods.
  • Gods were believed to have a big appetite, even eating 40 sheep a day.
  • Crown princes were the most important nobles.
  • Loan debts could result in a trader's family being sold into slavery.
  • Men had to take care of their wives responsibly or they would be punished.
  • Clay was common, making pottery a popular craft.
  • New Years was the most outlandish Babylonian religious celebration.
  • Artworks honored kings and gods, and artisans were highly honored.
  • There were Assyrian cuneiforms found with fights between the prince and king.
  • Basket makers were also common and made a decent living.
  • Assyrian women didn't have equal rights and had to obey their husbands.

Tombs of Ur

  • The tombs of Ur show the importance of jewelry. Queen Puabi was found wearing a grand headress and jewelry, and her sacrifices wore jewelry as well.

Artisans & Courts

  • City councils consisted of elites and bureaucrats.
  • Glassmaking and textile making were significant crafts, with textiles made by women in temples and glass recipes inscribed on tablets.
  • Families buried the deceased with grave goods for a successful afterlife.
  • Skilled artisans who used rarer materials made more money.
  • Courts were created to resolve disputes.
  • Peasants near marshes lived off of fish and birds, building homes from reeds.
  • Citizens had praying statues to worship the gods.
  • Sumerian kings and queens were buried with human sacrifices.
  • Farmers prayed to Ninkilim, the goddess of field mice, for a good harvest.
  • Copper and tin were mixed to make bronze for tools.

Ancient Mesopotamians' Beliefs

  • The earth was believed to be flat, as depicted on maps with Babylon at the center, surrounded by oceans and islands where gods lived.
  • Sickness was seen as divine punishment, cured by magic or rituals.
  • Jewelers used precious materials, and their works were treasured.
  • Farmers faced inflated taxes.
  • The temple staff and kings were often close.

Astronomy, Economy, & Calendar

  • Astronomy was based on astrology, and decisions were made based on gods in the sky.
  • Ancient mesopotamian crafters were talented at inlay art.
  • Taxes were payed when going through towns.
  • Cereals were important mesopotamian crops.
  • The Venus tablets were used to calculate Venus' movement.
  • The first 12-month calendar with zodiacs was developed.
  • Cylinder seals with carved designs were used to seal documents.
  • Some goods were forbidden to be carried by merchants.
  • Enhedduana, King Sargon's daughter, was the first author and wrote hymns.

Sumerian Writings

  • The agricultural revolution began around 9000 BC.
  • The Enuma Elish is a tale about the gods.
  • Ancient mesopotamian cities suffered through floods, wars, and disease, but still thrived.
  • The Atrahasis flood story is thought to have inspired Noah's Arc and involves a god sending a flood to a village who mistreated him as well as a king who escaped on a raft and saved mankind.
  • Mesopotamians developed helpful farming tools.
  • Reliefs were very common among kings to depict their victories.
  • Babylonian enscriptions show that a program called the ilkum gave men plots of land that were paid for by service, such as being in an army or building temples

Sargon's Army & Slavery

  • Ancient mesopotamians also wrote poems about brave heroes.
  • Sargon created one of the first standing armies around 2334 BC.
  • Slaves were often captured citizens or those selling themselves to pay off debt.

Trials & Assyrian Warfare

  • At the start of a trial, judges made the parties swear to tell the truth by touching a god's symbol.
  • Illustrations of a 4,500-year-old army were found in a tomb.
  • Assyrians took warfare seriously and used battering rams.
  • Most slaves were owned by temples but rich families employed slaves as well.

Cuneiforms & Status

  • Almost all information about ancient Mesopotamia comes from cuneiforms.
  • Assyrian kings used psychological warfare by committing gruesome acts and showing them to cities.
  • Doctors requested different amounts of money that would match the status of the patient.
  • Sumerians developed numbers around 3100 BC.
  • Assyrian armies included elite soldiers, volunteers, and captives, with chariots as the elite branch.
  • Foot soldiers stormed city walls.
  • A majority of Mesopotamians were farmers.
  • Farmers were at the bottom of the hierarchy.

Tools & Weather Predictions

  • Simple tools like hollow tubes and sundials led to accurate weather predictions.
  • Penalties were strict for helping slaves escape.
  • Peasants lived by marshes, eating fish and building homes out of reeds.
  • Math calculations were recorded on clay tablets.
  • Some kings would release debt slaves at the start of their rule.
  • City states constantly battled
  • Besides professional writers, only Kings and nobles could master cuneiform.
  • Assyrian kings used psychological warfare.
  • Cyrus stormed Babylon in 539 BC, and was seen as the liberator of babylon.

Writing & Legacy

  • Writing was one of Mesopotamia's greatest achievements.
  • The Jews adopted mesopotamian culture.
  • Early writing used pictographs.
  • An abbuttu was a hairsyle worn by slaves to be distinguishable
  • Henry Rawlinson discovered how to read cuneiform.
  • Pictographs evolved into cuneiforms.
  • Assurbanipal had the most well-known library in ancient Mesopotamia.
  • Assurbanipal's library was unearthed in the 1850s with 25,000 cuneiforms
  • Some of the first Sumerian writings were hymns to the gods written by King Sargon's daughter Enhedduana
  • Scribes organized hundreds of proverbs which students copied.
  • The Epic of Gilgamesh was the first great literary work.
  • Edubba means school
  • Men who Graduated the Edubba were more respected and got better jobs.
  • In 539 BC Cyrus the great stormed Babylon.

Contributions

  • Mesopotamia gave the world writing, cities, kingship, government, religion, law, math, medicine, and astronomy.
  • Mesopotamia's trade system inspired other countries to start trading.
  • Many of the ancient greeks achievements like conquerings and writings that you are doing and artwork were inspired by ancient mesopotamia.
  • Some inventions from ancient Mesopotamia were the wheel the plow and the arch in archetechtiure

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Explore ancient Mesopotamian society and culture. This includes religious practices like praying to Ninkilim, social structures like the 'ilkum' program, and artistic expressions through reliefs. Also, the economic activities and trade in ancient Mesopotamia.

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