How did Sumerian protect themselves?

Fortifications:

- Sumerians built city walls with mud-brick and occasionally reinforced with stone.

- Walls could reach up to 9 meters high and several meters thick.

- Towers were built along the city walls for archers to stand on and offer extra defense.

Warfare:

- Sumerians were adept at organizing armies for warfare, using standardized weapons, and mobilizing large numbers of troops.

- The Sumerian army primarily consisted of infantry, including spearmen, archers, and swordsmen.

- Chariots were also frequently employed in Sumerian warfare, providing mobility and a tactical advantage.

Military Technology:

- Sumerians were pioneers in the development of new military technologies.

- They used bronze weapons, including swords, spears, axes, and maces, giving them an advantage over their enemies who still relied on stone weapons.

- They employed siege engines such as battering rams and siege towers to breach enemy fortifications.

Naval Warfare:

- Sumerians engaged in naval warfare, making use of boats known as "gufas" that were driven by sails and oars.

- They used these vessels to transport troops and supplies, attack enemy ships, and raid coastal settlements.

Diplomacy and Alliances:

- Diplomacy played a crucial role in Sumerian defense and protection.

- Sumerian rulers formed alliances with neighboring city-states or kingdoms to strengthen their position against potential enemies.

- They engaged in treaties, negotiations, and diplomatic missions to maintain peace and secure their territories.

Espionage and Intelligence:

- Sumerians utilized espionage and intelligence gathering techniques to gain insight into enemy plans and activities.

- The Sumerians sent out spies to collect information about rival states and their military capabilities, which helped them formulate defensive strategies.