The Mesopotamian Wheel

Sumerians are believed to have invented the wheel. The three great contributions of the Mesopotamian civilisation to the world are the Sailboats, the system of cuneiform writing and the wheel. Wheel was a significant invention as it revolutionised the system of transportation and thereby communication.
The origin of wheel can be traced back to 3500 BC. The first model of a wheel is that of one made of planks of wood joined together. Rollers were placed beneath heavy objects so that heavy objects could be moved easily.
Subsequently the sledge was invented. Then the roller and the sledge were combined. Finally, holes for the axle were drilled through the frame of the cart. Axle and wheels were now made separately.
In the Sumerian age, wheels were connected to the chariots. The first wheels were made from clay, mud and rock. It is said that wheel originated from the observation that log rollers with worn down centres were easier to use. Wheels were used to make carts and wagons. There were also pottery wheels. Wheels were also used as toys, weapons, tools etc.
Early Mesopotamian chariots and wagons usually included a primitive set of four wheels and two axles. The Egyptians modified the wheel later on.