The ancient civilization known for the development of cuneiform writing is the Sumerians, who lived in Mesopotamia around 3,500 BCE. Cuneiform, one of the earliest writing systems, was initially created for record-keeping and administrative purposes, using wedge-shaped marks on clay tablets. This writing tool allowed Sumerians to document trade, laws, and literature, including epic tales like the Epic of Gilgamesh. Their innovations in writing contributed significantly to the documentation of history and culture, influencing subsequent civilizations in the region and laying the groundwork for future literacy and written communication.