The ancient Sumerians are credited with developing the first known form of writing, known as cuneiform, around 3400 to 3000 BCE. This innovative writing system utilized wedge-shaped marks made on clay tablets. The Sumerians used cuneiform for various purposes, including record-keeping, literature, and administrative functions. Their writing laid the foundation for written language, enabling the transfer of knowledge across generations and establishing the importance of written records in ancient civilizations. Cuneiform has been pivotal in understanding the historical, legal, and cultural aspects of Sumerian and Mesopotamian societies, marking a significant advancement in human communication.