The ancient civilization known for its systematic approach to mathematics and extensive historical record-keeping is Mesopotamia. Emerging between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, this civilization developed early forms of writing, particularly cuneiform, which allowed for extensive documentation of trade, governance, and daily life. Their mathematical innovations included the base-60 counting system, which is still used for measuring time and angles today. Mesopotamia's advancements laid the groundwork for future civilizations in areas such as astronomy and literature.