* They established the concept of representing language visually. Before these systems, communication was largely oral. Hieroglyphs and cuneiform showed that language could be captured and preserved in a tangible form.
* They introduced the idea of an alphabet. While not strictly alphabetic, both systems used symbols to represent sounds, syllables, or words, laying the groundwork for later alphabetic systems.
* They sparked a shift in human civilization. The ability to record and transmit information had a profound impact on society, leading to the development of:
* Record keeping: Tracking trade, laws, history, and other important information.
* Literature and storytelling: The preservation of stories, myths, and poetry.
* Education and learning: The ability to share knowledge and ideas across generations.
* The growth of empires and complex societies: More efficient communication allowed for better organization and governance.
While hieroglyphs and cuneiform were eventually replaced by more efficient writing systems, their impact is undeniable. They laid the foundation for the communication systems that underpin our modern world.