Answer:
1. Sumerians made several inventions and advances in learning that greatly influenced the development of later civilizations. One significant invention was the development of cuneiform writing, which was one of the earliest known writing systems. This allowed for the recording and preservation of information, such as laws, religious texts, and literature. The Sumerians also developed advanced irrigation systems, which helped to support agriculture and increase food production. This innovation paved the way for the establishment of large, urbanized societies. Furthermore, the Sumerians made important mathematical advancements, such as the development of a numerical system based on the number 60, which is still used in measuring time and angles today. These inventions and advances in learning laid the foundation for future civilizations in terms of written communication, agricultural practices, and mathematical concepts.
2. The invention of cuneiform writing greatly strengthened Sumerian government and religious practices. With the ability to record and preserve information, the Sumerian government could establish laws and regulations, ensuring consistent governance and order. This allowed for the formation of a centralized authority and the development of a complex legal system. Additionally, cuneiform writing played a crucial role in religious practices. Religious texts and rituals were written down, allowing for the transmission and preservation of religious knowledge and traditions. Temples served as centers of religious and economic activities, and the ability to record offerings and transactions through cuneiform writing facilitated efficient management and organization. Overall, cuneiform writing provided a means for effective communication, documentation, and administration, strengthening both the Sumerian government and religious practices.
3. Sumer was both a monarchy and a theocracy in different aspects of its society. As a monarchy, Sumer was ruled by kings who held absolute power and authority over the land. The kings were responsible for governing the city-states, enforcing laws, and leading the military. However, Sumer was also a theocracy, meaning that it was believed to be ruled by the gods. The king, as the highest political and religious authority, acted as an intermediary between the gods and the people. The king's rule was often legitimized by claiming divine right, suggesting that they were chosen by the gods to govern. The kings also played a role in religious rituals and ceremonies, ensuring the well-being and favor of the gods. Therefore, Sumer was a monarchy in terms of political power and a theocracy in terms of religious authority, combining both elements in its governance.
4. Sumerian civilization was characterized by several main features. Firstly, they developed one of the earliest known writing systems called cuneiform, which enabled the recording and preservation of information. Secondly, Sumerians built advanced irrigation systems that supported agriculture and led to increased food production. This allowed for the establishment of large, urbanized societies. Thirdly, they had a complex social structure with a monarchy and a theocracy, where kings held political and religious authority. Lastly, Sumerians made significant contributions to mathematics, such as the development of a numerical system based on the number 60. These features, including their advancements in writing, agriculture, social structure, and mathematics, played a crucial role in shaping Sumerian civilization.
5. The geography of the Fertile Crescent had a significant impact on the development of civilizations in the region. The presence of fertile soil and access to water sources, such as the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, allowed for the growth of agriculture. This led to the development of settled farming communities and the rise of complex societies. The surplus food produced from the fertile land supported a larger population, which in turn facilitated the emergence of specialized labor, trade networks, and the development of urban centers. Additionally, the natural barriers, such as mountains and deserts, provided some protection against invasions and encouraged the formation of distinct cultural identities. Therefore, the geography of the Fertile Crescent, with its fertile soil, water sources, natural barriers, and resources, played a crucial role in shaping the development of civilizations in the region.
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