The History of Sumer

15 Points Per Correct Answer - No time limit  

1. The Sumerians were the inventors of the world's first writing system, a series of wedge-shaped markings called what? Hieroglyphics Cuneiform Hangul Pali

2. The great Sumerian 'Epic of Gilgamesh' introduces us to King Gilgamesh. He was the 4th king of what ancient Sumerian city? Nippur Eridu Isin Uruk

3. Which title was given to a king who ruled a city and additional territory within its vicinity? Ubaid Lugal Kish Enkil

4. What title was given to a city governor of ancient Sumeria? Ensi Ashkur Lapi Palil

5. Food staples of the Sumerians included barley, onions, various legumes, the occasional fish and what other grain? Sorghum Maize Alfalfa Emmer

6. During the latter part of the early period of Sumerian dynastic history, the capital shifted to a city which was dominated by kings such as Messalim and Eannatum, who took on the ceremonial title of 'King of Kish'. From which city, presided over by its chief god Ningirsu, did these kings rule? Assur Lagash Larsa Khafaje

7. The Akkadians conquered the cities of Sumeria during the 23rd century B.C. under the powerful rule of Sargon, the first king of Babylon. Sargon's grandson further strengthened the empire and deified himself, taking the title 'King of the Four Quarters of the Universe'. What was this grandson's name? Naram-Sin Uterhegal Ashurbanipal Ur-Nammu

8. The Babylonian dynasty was destroyed during the 21st century, largely due to incursions by what people of the mountains of Persia? Elamites Hittites Assyrians Gutians

9. The 3rd Sumerian dynasty was propagated by Nammu, who revolted against Uterhegal, king of Uruk (who had in turn revolted against Akkadian dominance). Nammu established this 3rd dynasty at what ancient Sumerian city? Ur Baghdad Babylon Eshnunna

10. What was the name for the characteristic step temples that characterized Sumerian architecture? Diyala Ziggurat Melukkha Maghan