1. Technological Impact: The development of the plow and the wheel had profound agricultural and transportational implications, revolutionizing how Sumerian society operated and leading to increased food production and the rise of urban centers.
2. Architectural Advancement: Sumerians pioneered various architectural techniques, including the use of mud bricks, arch construction, and monumental ziggurat temples. These architectural achievements continue to influence our modern architectural practices and designs.
3. Political Organization: The Sumerians established some of the earliest city-states, developing systems of governance, laws, and social organization. These concepts became foundational elements of future governmental structures and have had lasting impacts on societies worldwide.
4. Scientific Contributions: Sumerians engaged in astronomy, mathematics (base-60 system), and medical practices, contributing to scientific knowledge and setting the stage for future scientific discoveries.
5. Mathematical Innovations: The development of the sexagesimal system (base-60), which influenced the way we measure time, geometry, and angles, is considered a significant Sumerian contribution to mathematics and science.
Although writing was a momentous innovation, as it preserved historical records, facilitated trade and communication, and promoted cultural transmission, it was not the only defining factor in Sumerian civilization's significance. Each of the above elements played a crucial role in shaping their legacy and laying the groundwork for subsequent civilizations.