Mesopotamian Civilization

Civilization begins between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers

Where did the first civilizations of the world appear? What are some characteristics that make a civilization?

I. The First Civilizations

A. Arose in River Valleys. B. Why? C. Our first Civilizations begin between the

Tigris and the Euphrates Rivers in modern day Iraq.

D. What is a civilization??????

II. Ancient Sumer

A. Around 3000 BCE city states emerge in Sumer.

B. located in the eastern part of the fertile crescent.

C. Each city state functioned as its own civilization Had own government Battled with other city states for territory.

The ancient city states of Sumer would have looked similar to this image above. Look on page 18 of your book to see another view of a city state.

III. Advancements in Farming

A. Most Farming done in Ancient Mesopotamia was done between two rivers.

B. Flooding was common! C. Farmers learned to adapt to their

environment. D. Irrigation – manmade waterways to

bring water to their crops.

Read the following handout as a group, highlight important ideas.

Respond to the following questions. 1. What is religion? 2. Why is it important to study religion?

IV. Gods & Rulers

A. The Sumerians believed in many gods. B. Polytheism – the belief in many gods. C. Believed their cities were property of

the gods. D. Each city state had a ziggurat

dedicated to the most important god or goddess.

E. Ziggurat- a grand temple!

Now that’s what I call a ziggurat!