Archaeological 'finds' have enabled us to gain valuable historical insights into past civilizations. The earliest forms of archiving information and the subsequent 'storing' of these records have both been located in Ancient Mesopotamia. The clay tablets were often described as having been stored in groups or batches that sometimes were as large as one thousand in number.
Amazingly, a 'collection of tablets' had been discovered near the ancient city of Nippur that included 'inscribed lists of geographical names, lists of gods, lists of professions, writing exercises, a number of hymns' [Casson, Libraries in the ancient world, p. 3]. This 'library' may have been a reference centre that was utilized by a school of scribes and now proves invaluable for us today seeking historical information. Just as the Babylonians and Assyrians treasured the Sumerian language and wished to preserve it within their respective civilizations, we too are benefiting from these ancient writings.
A detailed gallery of items from the Reign of Gudea of Lagash to Shalmanassar 111 held within the Library Of Congress site, it displays these items with photograph images, transcriptions and drawings of clay tablets. Included here is a variety of tablets such as accounting, school exercise books and contract seals. How is this for a date of publication (or creation) 2200-1900bc!
The Library of Congress
Ancient Iraq historical online information is also available here to reference.
Discovery Channel
This site shows the ability of modern digital technology to create virtual, 3D copies of clay tablets and other Ancient Iraq items lost from modern Iraq museums during conflict. The old made new!
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