Mesopotamia, located in the Crescent Valley between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, is recognized as one of the earliest civilizations due to its advanced cities, specialized workers, complex institutions, record-keeping, and advanced technologies. The Sumerians, who lived in this region, developed city-states, invented cuneiform writing, and created significant innovations such as the wheel and a mathematical system based on 60.

This chapter introduces the early civilization of Mesopotamia, highlighting its development due to the fertile land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. The geography of the Crescent Valley played a crucial role in the establishment of city-states and the growth of agriculture in the region.

The Sumerians built one of the earliest civilizations by overcoming geographical challenges through irrigation, trade, and construction. Their innovations in technology, governance, and record-keeping laid the foundation for advanced cities and complex institutions.

Religion was central to Sumerian life, with Enlil as the chief god due to his control over essential weather elements. Sumerians also made significant advancements in science, technology, and social structure, including the invention of the wheel, plows, and a mathematical system based on 60.

The chapter discusses the transition of power in Mesopotamia from the Sumerians to the Akkadians and later the Babylonians. It highlights the significant contributions of Hammurabi, particularly his code of laws, and the eventual decline of these civilizations.