Often considered the first true civilization is Mesopotamia, which emerged around 3500 BCE in the region between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, primarily in modern-day Iraq. Mesopotamia is credited with developing some of the first forms of writing, known as cuneiform, as well as significant advances in agriculture, urbanization, trade, and law. The Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians were prominent cultures within this region, contributing to advancements in mathematics, astronomy, and literature. Mesopotamia's innovations laid the foundation for future civilizations, influencing cultures throughout the world in various fields.