The invention of math in Mesopotamia began around 3000 B.C.E. in the city of Sumer. The people of Sumer, much like every civilization at the time, relied on trade for their economy. One of the things that made this civilization different from others was their usage of receipts. Sumerians used tokens with specific symbols to indicate what they were purchasing. They would have to have many of these tokens to buy multiple of one item. This resulted in the need for math and numbers to keep track of what was purchased. They developed a system with a base of 6 (Hays) made up of different, distinctive signs (Melville). They used the new numeric system and combined it with the symbols that were already in use to signify their purchases. At first, they continued to use their tokens, later switching to using clay tablets and styluses. 

Math wasn't just used for trade, it was also used for various other purposes. Some of these purposes included the use of mathematics in science, especially in astrology, and in construction. The Mesopotamians were very interested in the way things worked, similar to the other civilizations at the time. Being one of the first civilizations, it is understandable as to why they were so interested in the unknown. They especially liked learning about the stars and used math to understand them better (Rochberg). They used mathematical models and patterns to predict the visibility of the moon at night and when Venus would appear in the sky. They also used mathematics to help with construction throughout the city. They were able to calculate the cost of labour and the amount of time and workers would be needed to build the canals throughout the cities (Hays). 

The usage of mathematics in Mesopotamia eventually led to many historical developments, one of those being the first form of writing, cuneiform. The development of cuneiform came from Mesopotamia's development of numerals and symbols to signify purchases. These were added together to create cuneiform (Puhvel). As mentioned previously, math was also used in astrology (Rochberg). Astrology was very important to the Mesopotamians, much like the other parts of their environment were. This is shown in how they created many different deities to worship certain celestial bodies. 

Today, we continue to use some of the mathematical processes that were used back then. Their base 6 system influences how we divide time, the 360-degree circle, and the 12-month year. Many of their mathematical practices are still used even today and continue to influence and amaze mathematicians and scientists alike (Hays).