What civilization was before the Sumerians?
The Sumerians, one of the earliest known civilizations, emerged in the region of Mesopotamia around 4500 BCE. They are renowned for their contributions to writing, law, and agriculture. However, the question remains: what civilization was in existence before the Sumerians? This article delves into the pre-Sumerian era, exploring the possible predecessors and the cultural and technological advancements that paved the way for the Sumerian civilization.>
The pre-Sumerian era is often referred to as the Neolithic period, which began around 10,000 BCE. During this time, human societies were transitioning from a nomadic lifestyle to settled agricultural communities. The first known civilization to emerge during this period was the Natufian culture, which flourished in the Levant region of the Fertile Crescent.
The Natufians were known for their sophisticated farming techniques, such as the cultivation of wheat and barley, as well as the domestication of animals like sheep and goats. They also built permanent structures, which were the precursors to the mud brick houses that would later become characteristic of the Sumerian cities.
Another significant pre-Sumerian culture was the Halafian culture, which flourished in the same region as the Natufians. The Halafians were known for their advanced pottery techniques and the production of high-quality ceramics. They also engaged in long-distance trade, which suggests a level of social organization and economic activity that would later be seen in the Sumerian civilization.
As the Neolithic period progressed, other cultures began to emerge, such as the Pre-Pottery Neolithic A (PPNA) and Pre-Pottery Neolithic B (PPNB) cultures. These cultures were characterized by the development of agriculture, the construction of permanent dwellings, and the production of pottery. The PPNB culture, in particular, is believed to have laid the foundation for the development of the Sumerian civilization.
The Sumerian civilization itself can be traced back to the Uruk period, which began around 4500 BCE. The Uruk period saw the rise of the first cities, including the famous city of Uruk, which was home to tens of thousands of people. The Sumerians developed the cuneiform script, the first known writing system, and established a complex legal and administrative system.
In conclusion, the pre-Sumerian era was marked by the gradual development of settled agricultural communities and the emergence of various cultures that laid the groundwork for the Sumerian civilization. The Natufian, Halafian, and other Neolithic cultures contributed to the technological and social advancements that would eventually lead to the birth of one of the world’s first great civilizations.
