Final answer:
The division of labor contributed to the growth of the Mesopotamian civilization by allowing people to specialize in different occupations and skills. This resulted in an economic surplus and societal advancement. The division of labor also affected social status, with individuals in specialized professions having higher social standing compared to those in agricultural or manual labor.
Step-by-step explanation:
The division of labor was a crucial factor in the growth and development of the Mesopotamian civilization. With the specialization of labor, people in ancient Mesopotamia were able to focus on specific occupations and skills. This led to the emergence of a wide range of professions such as leather workers, potters, metalworkers, scribes, and priests. By dividing labor and having individuals specialize in different tasks, the civilization was able to produce a surplus of goods and services, leading to economic growth and societal advancement.
This division of labor also had an impact on social status. As society stratified, individuals in specialized professions gained higher social status compared to those involved in agricultural labor or manual work. The ruling class and religious leaders occupied the highest positions in the social hierarchy.