The Sumerians were among the first civilizations to make significant innovations that shaped human history. They developed the earliest known form of writing called cuneiform, which allowed them to record information, trade, and communicate ideas. This writing system was inscribed on clay tablets, making it easier to keep records and pass down knowledge through generations. In addition to writing, the Sumerians made advancements in various fields such as mathematics and astronomy. They created a base-60 number system, which is still used today for measuring time and angles. Their understanding of the stars led to the development of calendars, helping them track seasons and agricultural cycles.