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Dan Snow's History Hit
Babylon
Nov 3, 2023
Amanda Podany, Professor emeritus of history at Cal State Poly, joins Dan Snow to discuss the foundational civilization of ancient Mesopotamia, focusing on the city of Babylon. They explore the vibrant social dynamics, governance, and prosperity of the civilization. They also delve into topics like Hammurabi's enduring legacy, Mesopotamian contributions to science and astronomy, and the enduring civilization of Babylon.
34:12
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Quick takeaways
- Mesopotamian culture laid the foundation for subsequent Greek and Roman civilizations through advancements in writing, literature, science, mathematics, and astronomy.
- The birth of urban culture in Mesopotamia marked the emergence of cities, characterized by monumental architecture, social stratification, and organized labor, leading to a dense population and facilitating trade and diplomacy.
Deep dives
The importance of Mesopotamian culture and the rise of Babylon
Mesopotamian culture, spanning over 3,000 years, laid the foundation for subsequent Greek and Roman civilizations. Cities in Mesopotamia were centers of innovation, achievement, and urban culture. One notable city is Babylon, which exemplifies the advancements and social structures of Mesopotamian civilization. The city thrived from 3,500 BC to the 1st century, with an explosion of progress in various fields. Mesopotamians developed a syllabic writing system, which evolved into early literature by famous authors like Enheduanna, the first named author in history. They also made significant contributions to science, mathematics, and astronomy. Despite the rise and fall of empires in the region, Mesopotamian culture left an indelible mark on human civilization.
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