Early Dynastic Period, c. 2900–2334 BCEReputable sourceWell documented
The Sumerian City-States and the King List
On the timeline · around Early Dynastic Period, c. 2900–2334 BCE ·
What happened
Southern Mesopotamia was divided among rival city-states — Ur, Uruk, Lagash, Kish and others — each ruled by a king and centred on its patron god's temple. The Sumerian King List records these dynasties, claiming kingship had 'descended from heaven'.
Why it matters
These competing city-states forged the institutions of kingship, law and warfare, and the King List is one of the earliest attempts to write down history itself.
Sources
- World History Encyclopedia. The Sumerian King List · Reputable source