Mesopotamian Civilization: Temples and Kings

Early Settlements in Southern Mesopotamia

Settlements began in southern Mesopotamia around 5000 BCE. The earliest cities emerged from these initial settlements.

Three Distinct Types of Mesopotamian Cities

Historians identify three primary kinds of cities that developed during this era:

1. Cities developed around temples.
2. Cities developed as trade centers.
3. Imperial cities.

The Architecture and Purpose of Early Temples

The earliest temple was a small shrine made of unbaked bricks. Temples were considered the residence of gods; for instance, significant structures were built for the Moon God of Ur and the Goddess of Love and War, Inanna. These eventually grew into large temples featuring several rooms, courtyards, and reinforced outer walls.

The Temple as a Center for Urban Production

The community offered grain, curd, and fish to the gods. Various industries, such as oil pressing, grain grinding, spinning, and weaving, were practiced within the temple precincts. Consequently, the temple gradually developed as the organizer of production and became the primary urban institution.

Environmental Challenges and Water Conflicts

Floods and changes in the course of the river created significant problems, leading to the periodic relocation of villages in Mesopotamia. People living upstream on a channel could divert water into their own fields; as a result, people living downstream were often left without water. This led to continuous wars between villages over land and water rights.

The Rise of Chiefs and Royal Authority

Successful chiefs distributed loot among their followers and took prisoners from defeated groups to employ as guards or servants. To solidify their status, they offered precious booty to the gods and beautified the temples. By organizing the distribution of temple wealth, these leaders gained high status and the authority to command the community.