How was sumerian culture spread throughout mesopotamia?
By trade, the use of writing, and other methods of cultural diffusion.
http://history-world.org/sumerian_culture.htm
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The Sumerian culture was primarily spread throughout Mesopotamia through a combination of trade, conquest, and cultural exchanges. Here's a breakdown of the mechanisms through which Sumerian culture spread:
1. Trade: The Sumerians were known for their advanced agricultural and economic systems. They established trade networks within Mesopotamia and beyond, which helped in disseminating their cultural practices and ideas. As Sumerian merchants traveled to different regions, they not only exchanged goods but also shared their customs, beliefs, and language.
2. Conquest: Ancient Mesopotamia witnessed numerous military conquests and the rise and fall of several empires. When conquerors such as the Akkadians, Babylonians, Assyrians, and later the Persians conquered Sumerian cities, they often assimilated elements of Sumerian culture into their own. These conquerors adopted Sumerian administrative practices, writing system (Cuneiform), and religious beliefs, hence spreading Sumerian cultural traits across the land.
3. Cultural Exchange: Mesopotamia, being a region with numerous city-states and diverse populations, facilitated cultural interactions and exchanges. Sumerian cities, like Uruk or Ur, were known as cultural centers, attracting people from various backgrounds. As people from different regions and cultures migrated to Sumerian cities, they became exposed to and influenced by Sumerian culture. This led to the adoption and incorporation of Sumerian customs, arts, literature, and religious practices by non-Sumerian populations.
4. Education and Religion: Sumerians had a strong emphasis on education, and their scribal schools served as centers for learning. Students from different regions came to these schools to study the Sumerian language, literature, mathematics, and other subjects. As these educated individuals returned to their home regions, they carried Sumerian knowledge and cultural practices with them, enriching their local communities.
5. Cultural Leadership: Sumerian city-states, particularly during the Early Dynastic Period, played a significant role in influencing the surrounding regions. These city-states often exerted cultural and intellectual dominance, serving as examples for other societies. This influence was manifested in artistic styles, architectural techniques, legal systems, and social structures, leaving a lasting impact on the broader culture of Mesopotamia.
In summary, the Sumerian culture spread throughout Mesopotamia through trade networks, conquests, cultural exchanges, educational institutions, and the cultural leadership of Sumerian city-states. These mechanisms facilitated the diffusion and assimilation of Sumerian customs, language, religious beliefs, and other cultural elements across the region.