IMPORTANT QUESTIONS 6 to 8 marks1.What do you understand by the word M...
Certainly! Here are detailed responses to some of the important questions about Mesopotamia:
1. Understanding Mesopotamia
Mesopotamia, often referred to as the "Cradle of Civilization," is a historical region located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in modern-day Iraq. It is known for its rich cultural and historical legacy.
- **Important Centres of Mesopotamia**:
- *Sumer*: Considered the earliest civilization in Mesopotamia.
- *Akkad*: Known for the Akkadian Empire under Sargon.
- *Babylon*: Famous for Hammurabi's Code and the Hanging Gardens.
- *Assyria*: Renowned for military conquests and cultural achievements.
2. Contributions of Mesopotamian Civilization
The Mesopotamian civilization made numerous contributions that shaped the world:
- **Writing System**: Development of cuneiform script.
- **Mathematics**: Base-60 number system, influencing time and geometry.
- **Astronomy**: Early observations leading to a calendar system.
- **Legal Systems**: Establishment of codified laws like Hammurabi’s Code.
3. Sacred Temple of Mesopotamia
The sacred temples, known as *ziggurats*, were religious complexes that served as both temples and administrative centers.
- **Design**: Multi-tiered structures, often built on raised platforms.
- **Function**: Served as places of worship and homes for deities.
- **Community Role**: Central to social and economic life.
4. Hammurabi’s Code of Law
Hammurabi's Code is one of the earliest and most complete written legal codes.
- **Content**: Consisted of 282 laws covering various aspects of daily life.
- **Principle**: Based on the idea of “an eye for an eye.”
- **Impact**: Established standards for justice and governance.
5. Early Temples as Houses
Early temples resembled houses to reflect their function as the dwelling places of the gods.
- **Architecture**: Simple structures with basic amenities.
- **Purpose**: To create a familiar environment for worshippers and deities.
6. Mesopotamian Seals
Mesopotamian seals were small carved stones used for marking ownership or authenticity.
- **Materials**: Made from materials like clay, stone, or metal.
- **Designs**: Often featured intricate designs or inscriptions.
- **Function**: Served as signatures in trade and legal documents.
7. Time Division in Mesopotamia
The division of time in Mesopotamia was based on their advanced understanding of astronomy.
- **Calendar**: Developed a lunar calendar.
- **Hours**: Divided the day into 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of night.
- **Influence**: Laid the foundation for modern measurements of time.
8. City Life in Mesopotamia
Mesopotamians highly valued city life, which facilitated cultural and economic development.
- **Urbanization**: Cities were centers of trade, politics, and culture.
- **Cultural Diversity**: Various communities coexisted, sharing customs and ideas.
- **Social Structure**: Complex hierarchies formed, with distinct roles.
9. Palace of Mari of King
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