Mesopotamia
Mesopotamia is shown in red
Have you ever known anyone with a "green thumb?" No matter what they plant, it grows! In reality, a major part of successfully growing plants has to do with whether the soil is fertile, or contains nutrients that keep plants healthy.
During the New Stone Age, permanent settlements began in river valleys and around a community known as the Fertile Crescent. Here, inhabitants were lucky enough to have access to fertile soil. In fact, the Fertile Crescent became known as the "land between the two rivers," or Mesopotamia, because of its location between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. This area also was known as the "cradles of civilization" because it was the first location of elaborate urbanization. By settling along the rivers, people learned to farm, experienced surpluses of food, and were protected from invaders.
Essential Questions
- Why did ancient river valley civilizations develop in river valleys?
- What were the important places, people, and characteristics of Mesopotamian civilizations?
Warm-Up
In this module, you will learn that as civilizations grew and prospered, they typically developed codes of law. These codes of law have provided a foundation to many of today's laws. Why do you think developing codes of law was a priority for these ancient populations? In a civilization, who should be responsible for creating and enforcing laws? Is there such a thing as too many laws?
Post your responses to these questions in the discussion area. Then, return to the topic discussion several times over the next few days to read your coursemates' posts. Reply to at least two of them, making sure to offer new insights, ask questions, and encourage further conversation.