Important Inventions
The Assyrian culture had dramatic growth in science and mathematics. This was because of the Assyrians obsession with war and invasion. Among the great mathematical inventions of the Assyrians were the division of the circle into 360 degrees and were among the first to invent longitude and latitude in geographical navigation. They also developed a sophisticated medical science which greatly influenced medical science as far away as Greece.
The Wheel Although archaeologists don't know for sure who invented the wheel, the oldest wheel discovered was found in Mesopotamia. It is likely the Assyrians first used the wheel in making pottery in 3500BC and then used it for their chariots in around 3200 BC. Mathematics The Assyrians used a number system with the base 60. They divided time up by 60's including a 60 second minute and a 60 minute hour, which we still use today. They also divided up the circle into 360 degrees. They had a wide knowledge of mathematics including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, quadratic and cubic equations, and fractions. This was important in keeping track of records as well as in some of their large building projects. Astronomy Using their advanced math, the Mesopotamian astronomers were able to follow the movements of the stars, planets, and the Moon. One major achievement was the ability to predict the movements of several planets. This took logic, mathematics, and a scientific process. Medicine The Assyrians made several advances in medicine with all the wars and battles they had, some medical medicines were needed for serious injuries. They used logic and recorded medical history to be able to diagnose and treat illnesses with various creams and pills. Technology The Assyrians made many technological discoveries. They were the first to use the potter's wheel to make better pottery, they used irrigation to get water to their crops, they used bronze metal (and later iron metal) to make strong tools and weapons, and used looms to weave cloth from wool. Interesting Facts About Mesopotamian Technology
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