1. The
World’s
First Civilization

2. Geography of Mesopotamia

3. Modern Mesopotamia?

5. What role did silt play in the rise of ancient civilization?

8. Map A: What do the cities of Mesopotamia have in common? Why?

9. Map B: How much rainfall does Mesopotamia get?

10. Map C: Why is Mesopotamia referred to as the “Crossroads of Civilizations”?

11. Map D: Why was the geographic location of Mesopotamia a disadvantage?

12. Mesopotamian Literature
The Epic of Gilgamesh
The World’s first piece of literature.
An epic poem written about a Mesopotamian King who searches for eternal life.
Why do you think Gilgamesh was dedicated to attaining eternal life?

13. Mesopotamian Literature

14. Epic of Gilgamesh

17. Mesopotamia Summary
River valleys provided food surplus >>>Key to the rise of civilization.
Unpredictable Flooding >>>pessimistic view of nature>>>angry gods
Crossroads of Civilizations
Center of trade routes
Constant invasions – very little stability