What was bad and good about Mesopotamia?

Answer 1

Well, all of the Mesopotamian Empires at all points of time relied heavily of slavery. They also tended to "relocate" large populations of enemies they had conquered- something they may have adopted from the Assyrians. Also, the society was very classist. The majority of people were very poor. Poor non-slaves, or surfs, farmed land owned by either rich land-owners or the Temple. Others may have owned small amounts of land on which they farmed. A large percentage of a farmers produce would be given to the King and/or the Temple. If you could not pay this tax, you or a family member would become a slave in the Temple. The King could also demand that you house, feed, and clothe soldiers. Women had almost no freedom. Marriages were arranged by the girls father, often to an older man. Women of lower classes could also be involved in business. However, there were laws protecting women. Women could divorce neglectful or abusive husbands, and could inherit a portion of property (their sons would split up the rest). In Mesopotamia people could bring their claims or suits to court, or a council. The council would decide the punishment/reward, or who was guilty/innocent, etc... Other benefits include having the protection of the King against raiders or violence, and the King would secure food rations during times of famine.