Description

In this episode of History 102, join WhatIfAltHists creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg as they explore the intricate history of Mesopotamia. This episode dives into the origins, advancements, and eventual decline of one of the world's earliest civilizations, covering everything from early agriculture to the prominent empires and their societal structures.

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This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co.

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@whatifalthist (Rudyard)
@eriktorenberg (Erik)
@TurpentineMedia

TIMESTAMPS:

The Fertile Crescent and Three Cultural Designations

The Formation of City-States in Mesopotamia

The Impact of Climate Change on Mesopotamia

The Role of Warfare in Mesopotamian Society

The Rise of the Priest Class and Theocracy

City-States and Government in Mesopotamia

The Development of Writing and Law Codes

Religion and Idol Worship in Mesopotamia

The Influence of Mesopotamian Civilization on the Bible

The Decline of Mesopotamian Civilization

Sumeria: The First Civilization

The Rise of Akkad and the First Empire

The Legacy of Mesopotamian Civilization

The Rise and Fall of Mesopotamian Empires

The Transition to Imperial Rule

The Evolution of Babylon

The Brutal Conquests of the Assyrians

The Impact of the Bronze Age Collapse

The Conquest of Mesopotamia by the Persians

BOOKS MENTIONED:
Against the Grain: A Deep History of the Earliest States by James C. Scott
The Story of Civilization by Will Durant
Assyria: The Rise and Fall of an Ancient Superpower by Eckhart Frahm
Scribes and Kings: The Lost History of the Ancient Near East by Marc Van De Mieroop
The Guide to the Bible by Isaac Asimov
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