The title of the first king in human history is often attributed to Sumerian king Alulim. According to the ancient Sumerian King List, a historical document that records the reigns of Sumerian kings, Alulim reigned for an astonishing 28,800 years. This figure, however, is likely exaggerated and reflects the mythological character of early Sumerian writings.
While Alulim is often seen as the inaugural king, it is essential to recognize that the concept of kingship varied significantly in ancient cultures. In fact, early forms of governance often included tribal leaders and chiefs who commanded respect and authority within their communities, long before the notion of kingship as we understand it today truly emerged.
Thus, while Alulim holds the title of the first king according to Sumerian records, attributing kingship to a single individual oversimplifies a complex historical evolution of leadership in human societies. It underscores the transition from communal leadership to formalized governance that characterized early civilizations.