Answer:

Yes, I agree that the development of Mesopotamian cities was mostly dependent on rural development. There are several reasons to support this viewpoint:

1. Agricultural Surplus: The rural areas surrounding the cities of Mesopotamia played a vital role in providing the necessary agricultural surplus. This surplus allowed for the sustenance of the urban population and supported the growth and development of the cities. Without a productive rural sector, cities would have struggled to meet the food and resource demands of their inhabitants.

2. Trade and Commerce: Rural areas served as important centers for agricultural production, which in turn fueled trade and commerce in the cities. The surplus agricultural products from the rural areas were exchanged for goods and services in the urban centers. This trade network facilitated economic growth and the development of specialized professions within the cities.

3. Labor Force: Rural areas provided a significant portion of the labor force that supported urban development. As cities expanded, they required a workforce to construct buildings, maintain infrastructure, and engage in various economic activities. People from rural areas often migrated to cities in search of employment opportunities and contributed to the growth of urban areas.

4. Resource Extraction: Rural regions often housed valuable natural resources, such as timber, metals, and stone. These resources were essential for the construction of buildings, infrastructure, and other developmental projects in the cities. The extraction and transportation of these resources from rural areas to urban centers played a crucial role in urban development.

5. Social and Cultural Interactions: Rural areas acted as sources of social and cultural interactions that influenced urban development. Villages and agricultural communities provided a foundation for the cultural practices, traditions, and societal structures that were later incorporated into the fabric of urban life. The exchange of ideas, knowledge, and technologies between rural and urban populations contributed to the overall development of Mesopotamian cities.

In summary, the growth and development of Mesopotamian cities were heavily dependent on the rural areas surrounding them. The agricultural surplus, trade networks, availability of labor, natural resources, and social interactions originating in rural regions played pivotal roles in supporting urban development and shaping the civilization of ancient Mesopotamia.