Writing originated in 3500 BC, transforming ancient civilizations forever

Name: Writing originated in 3500 BC, transforming ancient civilizations forever
Uploaded: 2026-02-16
Duration: 4 min 13 s
Channel: Lex Fridman
Description: Irving Finkele reveals that writing first emerged around 3500 BC in the Middle East, specifically between the Euphrates and Tigris rivers. This innovation allowed early civilizations to document trade, laws, and culture, fundamentally transforming human communication and societal structure.

Irving Finkele reveals that writing first emerged around 3500 BC in the Middle East, specifically between the Euphrates and Tigris rivers. This innovation allowed early civilizations to document trade, laws, and culture, fundamentally transforming human communication and societal structure.

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hourglass HistoryLex Fridman4:13

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