The document provides background information on ancient Mesopotamian empires that dominated the region of the Fertile Crescent, including the Sumerians, Babylonians, Assyrians, Neo-Babylonians, and Persians. Vocabulary terms are defined relating to these civilizations and their way of life, such as ziggurat, cuneiform, and iron. Maps show the locations of important cities and rivers in Mesopotamia. Brief summaries of each empire are given, highlighting their innovations, military power, and cultural influences. The empires arose and fell as they conquered neighboring territories and peoples, establishing control over large regions through bureaucracy and trade until being overtaken by subsequent powers.