1. Sumerian Achievements
Writing, Inventions, and Architecture

2. Writing
Sumerians were responsible for the 1st writing system, known as cuneiform.
Using a tool called the stylus, they would make wedge-shaped symbols on clay tablets. (early version on the iPad)

3. Scribes
Cuneiform was used in trading to keep track of business records.
The scribe, or writer, had the responsibility of recording items traded.
In addition, scribes could be hired to work for the government or in the temples.

4. Epics
While cuneiform’s original purpose was to record business deals, Sumerians later would discover the joy of writing.
Sumerians wrote down stories, poetry, and songs, usually about the gods or war.
A long poem about a hero is called an epic.
The Epic of Gilgamesh tells the story of the legendary Sumerian king. It was written on stone tablets c.2,000BC.

5. The Wheel
Sumerians were the 1st group of early people to construct carts and wagons using the wheel.
The potter’s wheel used in making clay pots was another invention of the Sumerians.

6. Other inventions The plow was used in planting crops.
An early clock that used water to measure time was invented by the Sumerians.
Bronze was used to make stronger weapons and tools.
Sumerians even made their own make-up and jewelry.

7. Math and Science
Sumerians developed a number system based on 60. Examples included: dividing a circle into 360 degrees and the year into 12 months.
They wrote down the names of plants, minerals, and animals and used them to create their own medicine.

8. Architecture The science of building is architecture.
While Sumerian rulers lived in palaces, the average person lived in one-story homes.
The most impressive display of Sumerian architecture was a ziggurat.
Ziggurats were temples shaped like pyramids.
Long staircases led up to the platform and shrine at the top.

9. Art and Music Cylinder seals were used to show ownership of an item.
The cylinder had a specific design that when rolled over clay would leave an imprint.
Other cylinder seals were used for decoration purposes.
Musical instruments such as the tambourine, lyre, and drums were used for entertainment.