(from Natasha, age 11)
Marjorie answers:
Dear Natasha,
Ancient Mesopotamia (the word means “land between the rivers”) controlled its vital water supply coming down from melting snow in the mountain areas by a brilliant system of irrigation canals. But when the snow did not melt or rain did not fall, severe droughts would occur. Without adequate water, crops would fail, livestock would die of thirst, and people would starve. Jomar and Zefa’s parents sent them away from their farm to the city of Ur in order to save them from the famine. Ur, one of the first cities in the world, was a vibrant place. Its huge temple, dedicated to the moon god, Nanna, dominated the city and was the center of economic and social life. The master goldsmith, Sidah, worked for the temple and Jomar became his apprentice. After frightening times, Zefa, a talented but untrained lyre player, eventually became a musician who was also supported by the temple. Today very little remains of Ur, now largely covered by sand, but archaeologists are still working there to try to piece together what life was like in Ur five thousand years ago. Natasha, thanks or your questions.
Sincerely,
Marjorie Cowley
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