Babylonians

The Babylonians were an ancient civilization that existed in Mesopotamia, in the region of present-day Iraq. They are known for their contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and law, as well as their impressive architectural achievements.

Key Points:

1. Location: The Babylonian civilization was centered in the city of Babylon, which was located on the Euphrates River.
2. Contributions to Mathematics: The Babylonians developed a number system based on the number 60, which is why we have 60 seconds in a minute and 60 minutes in an hour. They also made significant advances in geometry and algebra.
3. Contributions to Astronomy: Babylonian astronomers were among the first to make systematic observations of the heavens. They created a calendar based on the phases of the moon and were able to predict lunar and solar eclipses.
4. Code of Hammurabi: One of the most famous achievements of the Babylonians was the Code of Hammurabi, a set of laws that established the principle of "an eye for an eye" and provided guidelines for legal and social behavior.
5. Architecture: The Babylonians are known for their impressive ziggurats, which were massive stepped pyramids that served as religious temples.

Study Guide:

Use the following questions to guide your study of the Babylonians:

1. Where was the Babylonian civilization located?
2. What were the Babylonians' contributions to mathematics?
3. How did Babylonian astronomers make use of their observations of the heavens?
4. What was the Code of Hammurabi and why is it significant?
5. What are some examples of Babylonian architecture?

By exploring these questions, you can gain a deeper understanding of the Babylonian civilization and its impact on human history.

[Babylonians] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

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