Daily Life
Why was cuneiform difficult to learn?
There were hundreds of character combinations.
What is Hammurabi known for?
Uniting Mesopotamia and writing a code of laws
Who made decisions in early Mesopotamian villages?
A democratic assembly of free citizens.
Why is Mesopotamia called the "Cradle of Civilization"?
Why were priests powerful in Mesopotamia society?
They interpreted the will of the gods.
How were working-class people mostly paid?
Food and goods
What was the main idea of the Code of Hammurabi?
the strong should not harm the weak
Why did people become slaves in Mesopotamia?
They were in debt or were captives of war
Which invention came from Mesopotamia?
The Sundial
What was the largest structure in Ur?
temple
What type of home did aristocratic families typically live in?
Two-story brick houses around a courtyard
Why was one reason Ur declined?
The Euphrates River shifted away
From what did the city of Ur gain most of its wealth?
skilled workers and farming
What was a unique feature of Sumerian art?
wide-open, staring eyes
How were Sumerian gods believed to behave or look?
look ad behave like humans
Why was cuneiform invented?
record business transactions
Explain the role of the kind AND how kids eventually became permanent rulers.
A) the lugal was chosen only during times of crisis to lead the city.
B) Over time, repeated wars and the need for leadership allowed the lugal to gain more power
Why was the first lugal (king) originally chosen?
protect the city during crisis
What were the Sumerian cylinder seals used for?
stamping signatures or trademarks
Describe how religion influenced life in Mesopotamia.
People believed that each city had a patron god who controlled everything.
Which was the largest social class in Mesopotamia?
How did the working class contribute to the wealth of Ur?
The working class included farmers, craftsmen, builders, merchants, potters, and fishermen --> Their work produced food, wool cloth, and goods for trade, which made cities like Ur wealthy and successful.
What was the most important job of the Mesopotamian king?
lead the people in war
Identify two major achievements or inventions of Mesopotamia.
1. Mesopotamians invented the wheel, the sundial, the arch, cuneiform writing, and the first government and legal codes.
2. These inventions influenced later civilizations in trade, architecture, timekeeping, writing, and law.
What were the roles of the priests or power of the Gods in Mesopotamia?
Priests and priestesses interpreted the gods’ wishes and advised the king, giving them significant power in government and daily life.