Ancient Middle Eastern History

Ancient Middle Eastern civilization is believed to have arisen in the area of Mesopotamia prior to 4000 BCE. The first civilization was Sumer. The Sumerians developed the first writing system of cuneiform. They were the first to use the wheel and developed an early system of reservoirs and canals for irrigation.

The Sumerians were conquered by the Akkadians led by Sargon. About 2000 BCE Babylon was formed, and its ruler, Hammurabi, codified laws and punishments. To the north lived the powerful warrior Hittites.

Other important people were the seafaring Phoenicians known for their alphabet. The Hebrews, Persians, Assyrians and Chaldeans, among others were significant in Ancient Middle Eastern history.

Leading Contributors

Neil Gunn

Latest articles in Ancient Middle Eastern History

An Overview of Baalbek Lebanon

Lebanon's jewel in the Bekaa Valley, Baalbek is the site of the Imperial Roman Temples of Jupiter, Bacchus and Venus.

Apr 1, 2012 – Neil Gunn

Guardians of the Eastern Temples

Mythical beasts, eagle-winged bulls, and five-legged lions were among the stone guardians of ancient Near Eastern temples, cities and palaces, 3500-600 BC

Mar 15, 2011 – Crystal Smith

Capernaum its Synagogue and the Galilee Journeys of Jesus

The ancient town of Capernaum was, according to the Bible, Jesus's own town. Its Jewish Synagogue, now in ruins, remains at its heart.

Mar 12, 2011 – Neil Gunn

Qadisha Valley Lebanon a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Ouadi Qadisha (the Holy Valley) and the Forest of the Cedars of God (Horsh el-Rab) is one of five UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Lebanon.

Jan 29, 2011 – Neil Gunn

Petra's Nabatean Water Collection Systems

Nabatean water collection systems found in Petra, although influenced by earlier technology, introduced new designs allowing the city to flourish.

Jan 25, 2011 – Neil Gunn

Subscribe to feed