Chapter 2

The Fertile Crescent Piece of land from the Persian Gulf to the Mediterranean Sea. First civilization was Mesopotamia, which means “land between two rivers.” Tigris and Euphrates

Sumerian Civilization Cities – rectangular cities with high walls to protect them from invaders. Ziggurats – temples shaped as pyramids. Economy – Depended heavily on trade that was done on the rivers. Government – Ruled by a strong leader who maintained security. Scribes – Kept official records of society. Cuneiform - oldest form of writing Religion – Polytheistic and their gods were part of all aspects of life.

Early Empires

Persians United Many People Economic life Darius I – divided Persia into provinces to make them easier to rule. Set up central government for empire Economic life Most people took part in the barter system or trading of goods.

The Phoenicians Sea traders Created an alphabet with 22 letters “Carriers of Civilization”—spread the Middle Eastern culture throughout the Mediterranean region

The Israelites Nomadic Started around 2000B.C. migrating with their flocks. Famine (lack of food) sent them to Egypt Israel 1000 B.C. established the kingdom of Israel. Jerusalem - Built a capitol with a huge temple.

Hebrew Beliefs Religion Monotheistic believe in one ultimate God. Yahweh-God Ten Commandments – rules for religious and moral conduct. Covenant-agreement between people and God The Torah – set out the rest of Jewish laws. Prophets- holy leaders

Babylonians Hammurabi King of Babylon who started the first set of written laws. Criminal and Civil laws Set up punishment for both. Codify-write down a set of laws

Hammurabi’s Code (TicketOut) Now that you have read and discussed a portion of Hammurabi’s Code, write a paragraph addressing your thoughts on the following questions: 1. Do you feel Hammurabi’s laws were fair? Why or why not? 2. Do you believe Hammurabi’s punishments “fit the crime”? Why or why not? 3. Do you think Hammurabi’s punishments effectively deterred the commission of crime? Why or why not? 4. Many of today’s laws are similar to Hammurabi’s, but the punishments are vastly different. Explain how today’s punishments are different and what effect you think the difference has on the amount of crime in society.

Notes Review Which group spread culture and how? Who used cuneiform and what is it? The Hebrews were nomadic. What does that mean? Which group developed an alphabet? What is King Hammurabi known for? Explain how a barter system works.

Akkadians Sargon-famous conqueror Created the 1st empire--previously independent states united under 1 ruler Spread Sumerian ideas throughout his empire

Hittites “Melting Pot People” Excelled in Technology Blend their traditions with other civilizations Adopt the Akkaidian language Use a modified version of Hammurabi’s code of laws Excelled in Technology Iron weaponry Superior chariot Made charcoal from iron ore and wood

The Assyrians Sophisticated military organization State-of-the-art weapons Savage treatment of enemies Advanced war tactics Ladders, tunnels, armor, shields