The Sumerian Civilization emerged around 4500 BCE in the southern part of Mesopotamia, present-day Iraq. It is known for developing one of the first writing systems, called cuneiform, which was used for record-keeping and communication. The Sumerians built city-states like Ur and Uruk, featuring impressive ziggurats and advanced irrigation systems that supported agriculture. Sumerians made significant contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and law. They created a base-60 number system, which influences how we measure time today. Additionally, the Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the earliest known literary works, originated from this civilization, showcasing their rich cultural heritage.