Enslaved Africans, an uprising and an ancient farming system in Iraq: Study sheds light on timelinesArchaeological dating of ridge and canal features in southern Iraq indicates that the extensive agricultural system persisted for centuries after the 9th-century Zanj rebellion, challenging assumptions that the revolt caused immediate economic decline. The earthworks were constructed and used over an extended period, suggesting ongoing agricultural activity well beyond the rebellion.
Archaeologists have discovered hundreds of administrative tablets from the ancient Sumerian city of Girsu, revealing the surprisingly detailed and extensive bureaucracy of the Akkadian empire (2300-2150 BC). These tablets represent the earliest physical evidence of imperial control and provide insight into daily life, governance, and even the roles of women in Mesopotamian society.
Moudhy Al-Rashid's book "Between Two Rivers" delves into the intricate history of Mesopotamia, a region in modern-day Iraq that has often taken a backseat to the more commonly discussed civilizations of Greece, Rome, and Egypt. Through the lens of ancient tablets inscribed with the world’s oldest script, Al-Rashid’s narrative illuminates the rich tapestry of Mesopotamia, highlighting its profound contributions to the development of the modern world. This detailed and engaging work by Al-Rashid brings to light the often-overlooked story of this ancient civilization.
