Lesson 4: Ancient Sumer Flashcards
Define urban.
Another word for city.
Define rural.
Another word for countryside.
What is a city-state?
A mix of both countrysides and cities.
Define empire.
A land with different territories and peoples under a single rule.
How far West did Sargon’s empire stretch?
Sargon’s empire stretched as far west as Asia Minor or the Mediterranean Sea.
How did Sargon build an empire?
Sargon built an empire through conquest.
Define polytheism.
The worship of many gods.
Who were priests in Sumerian society?
People who performed religious ceremonies.
Define social hierarchy.
The division of society by rank or class.
How did trade affect Sumerian society?
Trade allowed Sumerians to have goods from other countries and to master skills by learning from other traders.
What steps did city-states take to protect themselves from their rivals?
City-states built massive walls and strong armies to protect themselves.
How did Sargon’s creation of an empire change the history of Mesopotamia?
Sargon’s empire introduced advanced city structures that inspired other cities.
Why were priests so influential in ancient Sumerian society?
Priests were influential because they claimed to speak to the gods, giving them a higher status.
Why would rulers benefit if they claimed to be chosen by the gods?
Rulers would benefit because people would be more likely to listen to and follow them.
