Mr. Arnold — Mesopotamian Math and Technology

Guided Reading: Annotate the reading in order to find a deeper understanding Numerous technological advances can be attributed to the Mesopotamians: irrigation, the plough, the sail, clay bricks, the potters wheel, metal-working (including metal armor and weaponry), writing, accounting, filing, glass and lamp making, weaving and much more. Mathematics The Mesopotamians developed mathematics to a more advanced level than any contemporary people, and in so doing laid many of the foundations for modern mathematics. They developed a number system based on base 60, which has given us the 60-minute hour, the 24-hour day, and the 360-degree circle. The Sumerian calendar was based on the seven-day week. They developed theorems on how to measure the area of several shapes and solids, and came close to an accurate measure of the circumference of circles. Astronomy A major branch of Mesopotamian science was astronomy. Mesopotamian priests could predict eclipses and solstices, and worked out a 12-month calendar based on the cycles of the moon. Mesopotamian astronomical knowledge was later to have a major influence on Greek astronomy. As with most pre-modern cultures, astronomy and astrology were inextricably bound together: the movement of the heavenly bodies were seen as having a direct influence on the affairs of men. This was a powerful stimulus for priests to work out as exactly as they could the movement of the planets and stars. Medicine Mesopotamian medicine is above all known from a text called the Diagnostic Handbook, dated to 11th century BC Babylon. This shows that Mesopotamian doctors had developed rational techniques of diagnosis, prognosis, physical examination, and prescriptions. Diagnosis and prognosis were based on rules of empirical observation and logical reasoning (as in modern medicine). Doctors used bandages, creams and pills in their treatments. As in all ancient societies, medicine and religion went hand in hand, and exorcism was also regularly resorted to.