and dominated Mesopotamia for the next thousand years. It first appeared in archaeological records around 3100 B.C. The Sumerian language is the oldest linguistic record. At its peak around 2800 BC, the city had a population between 40,000 and 80,000 people living between its six miles of defensive walls, making it a contender for the largest city in the world.Įach city-state of Sumer was surrounded by a wall, with villages settled just outside and distinguished by the worship of local deities.
Their culture was comprised of a group of city-states, including Eridu, Nippur, Lagash, Kish, Ur and the very first true city, Uruk. The people known as Sumerians were in control of the area by 3000 B.C.
Villages and towns were built around Ubaid farming communities. This early population-known as the Ubaid people-was notable for strides in the development of civilization such as farming and raising cattle, weaving textiles, working with carpentry and pottery and even enjoying beer. Sumer was first settled by humans from 4500 to 4000 B.C., though it is probable that some settlers arrived much earlier.
