In this episode of The Rest Is History, the hosts delve into the fascinating origins of Uruk, the first city in the world, situated in ancient Mesopotamia. They explore the environmental and social factors that contributed to its emergence, such as the influence of religious beliefs, advancements in irrigation and agriculture, and the creation of writing and accounting systems. The discussion also touches on early social hierarchies and labor exploitation, including slavery. The podcast emphasizes how Uruk's groundbreaking innovations shaped the trajectory of human civilization, paving the way for future urban growth and societal frameworks, while also recognizing the more troubling aspects of its history.
