WHI: Topic 01: Mesopotamia CC

What two things did Mesopotamia help create that the speaker particularly likes?

• Writing and taxes

• Cities and agriculture

• Temples and palaces

• Laws and trade routes

What form of economic system did early Mesopotamian cities engage in, where farmers contributed crops to public storehouses and workers were paid in grain?

• Capitalism

• Feudalism

• Socialism

• Bartering

In Mesopotamian cities, what structure eventually began to rival the power of the temples, leading to a shift in social order?

• The marketplace

• The palace

• The city walls

• The granaries

What was the initial primary purpose for the creation of cuneiform writing in Mesopotamia?

• To record epic poems and stories

• To woo lovers and write personal letters

• To record transactions and manage resources

• To document religious rituals and prayers

What was a notable characteristic of Hammurabi's Law Code?

• It was known for its leniency and focus on rehabilitation.

• It established a system where punishments were always monetary fines.

• It was famously harsh, including punishments like "an eye for an eye."

• It primarily dealt with religious laws and rituals.

How did Hammurabi attempt to portray himself in his law code?

• As a fierce warrior and conqueror.

• As a wise prophet and spiritual leader.

• As a shepherd and a father to his people.

• As a wealthy merchant and economic innovator.

What was a key characteristic of the Neo-Assyrian army?

• Generals were chosen based on their family lineage.

• It was a meritocracy, with generals chosen for their skill.

• It relied heavily on diplomacy rather than brute force.

• It was known for its compassionate treatment of conquered peoples.

What was a primary reason for the eventual downfall of the Neo-Assyrian Empire?

• They became too peaceful and stopped expanding.

• Their worldview, based on continuous conquest, collapsed after a single military defeat.

• They were overthrown by a massive slave rebellion.

• A series of natural disasters destroyed their major cities.