45 Facts About Ancient Sumerian Technology

Ancient Sumerian Writing and Record Keeping

The Sumerians were pioneers in developing one of the earliest forms of writing and record-keeping systems. These innovations were crucial for administration, trade, and preserving their culture.

1. Cuneiform Writing: The Sumerians invented cuneiform around 3400 BCE. This wedge-shaped script was initially used for administrative purposes but later expanded to include literature, mathematics, and astronomy.

2. Record Keeping: Cuneiform was primarily used for keeping records. They developed systems of weights, measures, and currency to track property and people within city-states.

Mathematical and Astronomical Innovations

The Sumerians made groundbreaking contributions to mathematics and astronomy, which influenced many subsequent civilizations.

3. Mathematics: They developed a sexagesimal (base-60) number system. This system is still used today for measuring time and angles.

4. Astronomy: Sumerian astronomers mapped stars into constellations, many of which were later recognized by the Greeks. They also identified the five planets visible to the naked eye.

Agricultural and Hydraulic Engineering

Sumerian innovations in agriculture and water management transformed their arid environment into fertile land, supporting their growing population.

5. Irrigation Systems: They created advanced irrigation systems to control flooding and ensure a steady water supply for crops.

6. Canals: Canals were built to manage water effectively and serve as trade routes, connecting different parts of Mesopotamia.

Transportation and Military Technology

The Sumerians were also innovators in transportation and military technology, which played a significant role in their society.

7. Wheeled Vehicles: Evidence of wheeled vehicles appeared in the mid-4th millennium BCE. These early chariots were used primarily for transportation.

8. Chariot Technology: Sumerian chariots were manned by a crew of two and harnessed to four onagers. These early chariots were crucial for transportation and warfare.

9. Military Technology: The Sumerian military developed advanced technologies, including carts harnessed to onagers. Infantrymen carried spears, wore copper helmets, and used rectangular shields.

10. Siege Warfare: Sumerian cities had defensive walls made of mudbrick. These walls often deterred invaders during sieges.

Metallurgy and Tool Making

The Sumerians were skilled metallurgists and toolmakers, creating durable and effective tools and weapons.

11. Bronze Technology: They developed bronze technology, which was crucial for making tools and weapons.

12. Leather Technology: Leather was used to make armor, harnesses, and other equipment, providing protection and durability.

13. Saws and Chisels: Craftsmen used saws and chisels to work with wood and stone, essential for building structures.

14. Hammers and Braces: These tools were used extensively in construction, allowing for the shaping of stone and wood.

15. Nails, Pins, and Rings: Small metal items like nails, pins, and rings were crucial for assembling and securing building components.

Weapons and Warfare

The Sumerians developed a variety of weapons and military equipment, enhancing their combat capabilities.

16. Hoes, Axes, Knives, and Lancepoints: Agricultural tools like hoes and axes were also used in warfare.

17. Arrowheads and Swords: They developed bronze arrowheads and swords, which were more effective than earlier copper-based weapons.

18. Glue and Daggers: Glue was used in woodworking and metalworking. Daggers were often decorated with intricate designs.

19. Quivers and War Chariots: Quivers carried arrows, while war chariots were used in combat.

20. Scabbards and Boots: Scabbards carried swords, while boots and sandals provided comfort and protection.

Daily Life and Commerce

The Sumerians' technological advancements extended to daily life and commerce, improving their quality of life and economic prosperity.

21. Harpoons and Beer: Harpoons were used for fishing, while beer was a staple beverage. Brewing required advanced fermentation techniques.

22. Boats and Navigation: They developed three main types of boats: clinker-built sailboats, skin boats, and wooden-oared ships, facilitating trade and navigation.

Architectural and Artistic Achievements

Sumerian architecture and art were highly advanced, reflecting their engineering skills and cultural values.

23. Architecture: Sumerian architecture featured mud bricks or bundled marsh reeds, arched doorways, and flat roofs. Structures were adorned with terracotta ornamentation and bronze accents.

24. Temples and Ziggurats: Temples, often built as Ziggurats, served as places of worship. These multi-storeyed tower temples were adorned with sculptures.

Religion and Mythology

Religion played a central role in Sumerian society, influencing their technological and cultural advancements.

25. Priesthood and Mythology: Priests composed many mythological stories, including the ‘Story of Creation’ and ‘Story of the Flood’.

26. Polytheism: The Sumerians believed in anthropomorphic polytheism, with a core pantheon of gods and goddesses.

Trade and Commerce

The Sumerians were efficient traders, maintaining relations with distant civilizations and contributing to their economic prosperity.

27. Trade and Commerce: They maintained trade relations with India and Egypt. Ur city was a famous center of international trade.

Medicine and Science

Sumerian advancements in medicine and science were remarkable, showcasing their knowledge and innovation.

28. System of Medicine: Sumerian medicine was based on magic and herbalism. They had advanced knowledge of anatomy and used surgical instruments.

Timekeeping and Divisibility

The Sumerians' innovations in timekeeping and mathematics have had a lasting impact on modern society.

29. Timekeeping: They invented the sexagesimal system, dividing hours into 60 minutes and days into 24 hours.

30. Divisibility of 60: The number 60 was chosen because it is easily divisible by many numbers, making it ideal for astronomical observations and timekeeping.

31. Astronomical Observations: Sumerian astronomers believed there were 360 days in a year, a number which 60 fits neatly into six times.

Engineering and Social Structure

Sumerian engineering feats and social structures were highly advanced, reflecting their organizational skills and cultural values.

32. Hydraulic Engineering: They created a system of ditches to control flooding and ensure a steady water supply.

33. Navigation and Geometry: The sexagesimal system allowed for precise measurements of angles and distances, crucial for navigation and geometry.

34. Cultural Legacy: The Sumerian civilization ended around 2500 BCE, but their technological innovations continued to influence subsequent civilizations.

35. Architectural Innovations: Sumerian architecture featured mud bricks, arched doorways, and flat roofs, adorned with terracotta ornamentation and bronze accents.

36. Artistic Achievements: Sumerian art included intricate designs and sculptures, often depicting mythological scenes and gods.

37. Scientific Contributions: Their system of medicine was based on magic and herbalism, with advanced knowledge of anatomy.

38. Engineering Feats: They built canals to manage water effectively, ensuring a steady supply for agriculture.

39. Social Structure: Sumerian society was highly stratified, with a complex hierarchy of gods and goddesses.

40. Military Organization: The Sumerian military was organized into infantry, cavalry, and archers, showcasing their organizational skills.

41. Legal Systems: They developed the first known codified legal and administrative systems, including courts and jails.

42. Archaeological Discoveries: Archaeological sites in Sumer have revealed a wealth of information about their technological advancements.

43. Cultural Exchange: They maintained trade relations with neighboring civilizations, facilitating the spread of technologies and ideas.

44. Decline of Sumerian Civilization: The Sumerian civilization declined around 2500 BCE due to power struggles and invasions.

45. Legacy in Modern Times: Their contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and engineering continue to shape modern society.

The Lasting Impact of Sumerian Ingenuity

Ancient Sumerians were true pioneers in technology, leaving a legacy that still influences us today. From cuneiform writing to advanced irrigation systems, their innovations laid the groundwork for future civilizations. Their sexagesimal system for timekeeping and mathematics remains in use, shaping how we measure time and angles. Sumerian architecture, with its mudbrick structures and ziggurats, showcased their engineering prowess. Their contributions to astronomy, medicine, and military technology were groundbreaking. Even after their civilization declined, the Sumerians' technological advancements continued to impact subsequent cultures. Their ability to innovate and adapt in a challenging environment is a testament to their ingenuity. The Sumerians' achievements remind us of the importance of creativity and problem-solving in human progress. Their legacy is a cornerstone of our technological heritage, proving that ancient wisdom can still guide modern innovation.