The king was the most important person in the Mesopotamian civilization, much like other ancient civilizations.
As for borders, well Mesopotamians had things called "city-states." City-states consisted of major cities, and the countryside surrounding the cities. Although these sound the same as states, city-states only had one city. If Ohio were a city-state, Columbus would be the only city, no Cleveland or Cincinnati.
Gods. That's what all of Mesopotamia revolved around. Everything was god-oriented. There were many festivals for the gods, because the Mesopotamians worshiped them so dearly. Crime was limited because of the gods. If you did something frowned upon, like murder someone or steal, the Mesopotamians believed the gods would have their wrath. That's some motivation to live your life well, and not do anything bad. Not very many people wanted to upset the gods.
So if you lived in ancient Mesopotamia, you would live in a city-state and heavily worship the gods.
As for borders, well Mesopotamians had things called "city-states." City-states consisted of major cities, and the countryside surrounding the cities. Although these sound the same as states, city-states only had one city. If Ohio were a city-state, Columbus would be the only city, no Cleveland or Cincinnati.
Gods. That's what all of Mesopotamia revolved around. Everything was god-oriented. There were many festivals for the gods, because the Mesopotamians worshiped them so dearly. Crime was limited because of the gods. If you did something frowned upon, like murder someone or steal, the Mesopotamians believed the gods would have their wrath. That's some motivation to live your life well, and not do anything bad. Not very many people wanted to upset the gods.
So if you lived in ancient Mesopotamia, you would live in a city-state and heavily worship the gods.
Rulers worshiping the Sun-god, Shamash.
Discussion Question: Which system do you think is better: City-states or modern-day states? Why? Discuss with your team.