Early Civilizations:
Mesopotamia &
Egypt
Unit 1, SSWH 1 a and b
SSWH 1 a & b
Describe the development of
Mesopotamian societies; include the
religious, cultural, economic, and political
facets of society, with attention to
Hammurabi’s law code.
Describe the relationship of religion and
political authority in Ancient Egypt.
What were the origins
and structures of
Mediterranean
societies?
Civilization’s 5 Characteristics
1.Advanced Cities
2.Specialized Workers
3.Complex Institutions
4.Record Keeping (scribe &
Cuneiform)
5.Improved Technology p.19-20
Mesopotamia
• Location: Modern day Iraq & Iran
Means: Land between 2 rivers
(Tigris & Euphrates)…is located in
the Fertile Crescent
• Ziggurat—tiered, pyramid like
structure that served as the center of
community (more than a temple)
p. 30 -32
• Culture: Cuneiform—Wedge
Shapes…this was the writing system
Epic of Gilgamesh—recorded stories
of history
• Economy: Bartering system
Cultural Diffusion—Spreading
culture through trade (Obsidian
Jewelry & Tools)
• Politics: Priests 1st leaders
Dynasties—Lengthy ruling families
City States—City which dominates
region
Law: Hammurabi’s Code – 282 written
laws, created to unify the community
(govt responsible for society) p.36- 37
• Religion: Foundation of Society
The people worship many gods
(Polytheism)
Each City had its primary God of worship
but all were given respect
A dark bleak outlook on the afterlife…they
did not make elaborate preparations
Egypt: Religion
• Polytheistic: believed in 2,000 + gods
• Ra (sun god) & Osiris (god of the dead):
IMPORTANT
• Afterlife: prepared for it (saved
money, food, clothes, etc.
• Pyramids: Tombs built for Pharaoh
• Pharaoh believed they were a god
Egypt: Politics
• Pharaoh: ruler of Egypt, a king
• Theocracy: govt based on
religious belief (Pharaoh is a
god & ran the country
p.44 -56
Shapely Review
Draw a large triangle on your paper.
On the triangle, write 3 important
points you wish to remember.
Be prepared to share in one minute.