The main occupation of the people in ancient Mesopotamia was agriculture. This civilization, often referred to as the "Cradle of Civilization," developed in the fertile lands between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. The introduction of irrigation techniques allowed Mesopotamians to cultivate crops such as barley, wheat, and dates, which supported a growing population. In addition to farming, trade played a significant role, as Mesopotamians exchanged goods, including textiles and pottery, with neighboring cultures. This agricultural and trade economy helped sustain city-states like Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, and Assyria, making Mesopotamia a center of early human civilization.