The end of the Sumerian civilization is believed to have been caused by a combination of factors, including environmental degradation, over-use of resources, and invasions by neighboring peoples.
Environmental Degradation
One of the main factors believed to have contributed to the decline of the Sumerian civilization is environmental degradation.
The Sumerians relied heavily on irrigation for their agricultural system, but as the population grew and resources were over-used, the land became increasingly arid and saline. This made it difficult to sustain crops and support the growing population, leading to food shortages and economic instability.
Invasions
In addition, invasions by neighboring peoples likely played a significant role in the decline of Sumer.
The Akkadians and the Gutians, for example, were able to gain control of large parts of Sumer and weaken its power through warfare and invasion. This destabilized the civilization and made it vulnerable to further attacks.
Climate Change and Droughts
Climate change also likely played a role in the decline of the Sumerian civilization.
There is evidence that droughts, which would have made it even harder to sustain crops, were a common occurrence in ancient Mesopotamia during this time period.
Internal Conflicts
Internal conflicts and political turmoil also may have contributed to the collapse of the Sumerian civilization.
The Sumerian city-states were often in competition with one another, and there is evidence that there were frequent conflicts and wars between them.
Additionally, there were many political struggles for power within the city-states, which may have further weakened the civilization.
What Happened to the Sumerians?
As the Sumerian civilization declined, the Sumerian people did not disappear. They were absorbed by the Akkadian Empire, which conquered Sumer, and their culture and language had a profound influence on the Akkadian and Babylonian cultures.
Sumerian continued to be written and used as a literary and sacred language for centuries.
