Cuneiform writing was created by the ancient Sumerians, a civilization that emerged in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) around 3400 BCE. They developed this system of writing to facilitate trade, record laws, and document historical events. Cuneiform is characterized by its wedge-shaped impressions made on clay tablets using a stylus. Over time, it evolved and was adapted by various cultures, including the Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. Cuneiform is regarded as one of the earliest forms of writing in human history and has significantly contributed to our understanding of ancient civilizations.