Babylon

Babylon was an ancient city in Mesopotamia, located in present-day Iraq. It was one of the most important cultural and political centers of ancient Mesopotamia, with a rich history and significant contributions to various fields, including science, mathematics, and astronomy.

Historical Significance

Babylon was known for its impressive city walls, the Hanging Gardens, and the famous "Tower of Babel." The city was also the center of the Babylonian Empire and was ruled by famous kings such as Hammurabi, who is known for creating one of the earliest surviving legal codes.

Science and Mathematics

The Babylonians made significant advances in mathematics, particularly in the development of the base-60 number system, which led to the division of an hour into 60 minutes and a minute into 60 seconds. They also made important contributions to astronomy, such as the development of the zodiac and the calculation of the length of the solar year.

Chemistry and Alchemy

While Babylon is not specifically known for its contributions to chemistry, the Babylonians did engage in various chemical processes as part of their daily lives, such as metalworking, pottery, and the production of dyes and perfumes.

Study Guide

1. What were the major contributions of Babylon to mathematics and astronomy?
2. Who was the famous king associated with the Babylonian Empire and what is he known for?
3. Discuss the significance of the base-60 number system developed by the Babylonians.
4. How did Babylonians contribute to the field of astronomy?
5. What were the key features of the city of Babylon?

[Babylon] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• MesopotamiaSocial Studies • Eighth Grade
• Ancient IsraelSocial Studies • Eighth Grade