WritingThe first type of writing used in Sumer was pictographs, or pictures that represent words.

Cuneiform came along after the pictographs and is considered to be the first real form of writing in the world. Sumerians would use a stylus (sharp wood tool) to make wedge-shaped symbols on wet clay.

Most of Sumerian writing was done by scribes (men taught how to write and did it as their job). They would keep records of their lives and history (including marriage contracts, business dealings and court records).

After developing writing, Sumerians were able to record their stories as well. The world’s oldest known story is the Epic of Gilgamesh. Gilgamesh is the hero of the story who goes on a long journey.

Technology

Sumerians invented the wheel. THE WHEEL!! They used this invention for carts, wagons, and the spinning potter’s wheel to make bowls of clay. When travelling on the river, Sumerians developed the sailboat.

They invented a plow (sharp farming tool) that was pulled by oxen and could break through hard clay to prepare the ground for planting.

A water-powered clock, sewers under the city streets, bronze tools, and weapons were other technological advancements. They also invented makeup and glass jewelry.

Math

The Sumerians used a math system based on the number 60 (We use base 10). This relates to the creation of the sixty minute hour and sixty second minute.

They were the first to divide a circle into 360°, break the year into 12 months, and calculate the area of triangles (1/2 base times the height) and rectangles (length times width). They used these measurements to measure the size of fields and to plan buildings.

Science

Sumerians studied the natural world and made lists of everything they saw.

They used ingredients from animals, plants, and minerals to make healing medicines.

They recorded medical treatments in order of symptoms and where on the body they were found.

Sumerians also watched the position of the stars (astronomy) in order to know the best times to plant crops and to hold religious ceremonies.

Architecture

Rulers lived in large palaces, the wealthy in two-story homes, and the poor in single-story homes made of mud bricks.

A Ziggurat (step pyramids) was in the center of every city. Some pyramids had enormous columns as part of their structure and decoration.

Art

Sumerians carved sculptures of their gods out of stone, while smaller figurines carved of ivory and rare woods.

They made basic pots out of clay for cooking and carrying water.

Jewelry was fashioned out of imported (brought in) gold, silver, and gems.

Cylinder seals were created as a way to mark a container as belonging to a specific person.

Seals were carved in unique ways and acted like a signature.