How does writing help historians and archaeologists understand the history of trade in Mesopotamia?

Writing in Mesopotamia helps historians and archaeologists understand the history of trade because it provides written records of transactions, goods, prices, and trade routes. This information offers valuable insights into the types of goods traded, the economic relationships between regions, and the significance of trade in the development of Mesopotamian society. Additionally, written records can reveal details about trade networks, cultural exchanges, and the impact of trade on political and social structures in Mesopotamia.