Cradle of Writing: The Lasting Legacy of Ancient Mesopotamia

The Impact of the Birth of Writing and How This Revolution Changed the World

How often have you stayed up scrolling on your phone, engaged in the content you explore? YouTube, articles, the news, or maybe even social media. Time flies as you move from one subject to the next, absorbing the impact of what you read and watch. But have you ever wondered how it all began? Not just the information or the format but the very idea of writing itself. This ancient practice of putting words to paper is far older than we often consider. The origins of writing in ancient Mesopotamia might change how you view the phrase “the pen is mightier than the sword.”

Sumer: Pioneers of Writing
First, we must consider the practical origins of writing. Today, writing permeates every aspect of our lives, but its initial purpose is far more straightforward. One fundamental necessity for all humans is securing food. Around 3500 BCE, an ancient civilization known as the Sumerians emerged at the southern end of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. While much of their early history is obscured due to a lack of sources, their innovative approach to record-keeping sets them apart.