ICSE Class 6 Answered

Agriculture was the main occupation of the people of the Mesopotamian civilisation. The Euphrates and Tigris rivers were the main sources of water supply. Flooding was irregular. Hence, an elaborate irrigation system was developed by the Mesopotamians in order to secure a steady supply of water throughout the year. Dykes were also built in order to control occasional floods. To increase agricultural production, the Mesopotamians invented the ox-drawn plough. They also made use of the wheeled wagon for transport. The Mesopotamians are believed to have cultivated wheat for the first time. They also grew other crops such as barley, pulses and fruits.