The ancient Sumerians developed cuneiform, one of the earliest writing systems known to humanity, around 3200 BCE. This system utilized wedge-shaped marks made with a stylus on clay tablets. Initially, cuneiform was used for record-keeping and administrative purposes, particularly in managing trade and agricultural resources. Over time, it evolved to express language, literature, and legal codes, allowing for complex communication and documentation. The advent of cuneiform marks a significant advancement in human civilization, fostering the development of literature, education, and governance in ancient Mesopotamia, ultimately influencing writing systems around the world.