Sumerian societies were strictly organized into a class-based structure, with kings and priests ruling at the top. These figures used a mixture of political and religious authority to control society and maintain order over their complex urban civilizations.

How was the early Sumerian civilization structured?

The Sumerian communities were city states organized around a temple and ruled by a priesthood. The bulk of the people of the community were considered to be the servant-slaves of the god of the temple. The political structure of Sumer was independent city-states.

What type of government was Sumeria?

The ancient Sumerians had a monarchy as a government, since the king was in charge of the state and selected advisors to help him govern.