In the annals of history, customer complaints are nothing new. One of the oldest known examples dates back over 4,000 years to ancient Babylon, where a disgruntled customer inscribed his grievances onto a clay tablet. This remarkable artifact, written in cuneiform script, is considered the earliest recorded complaint letter.
The letter was addressed to a merchant named Ea-nasir, who had promised to deliver high-quality copper but instead provided sub-standard material. The customer, a man named Nanni, expressed his frustration at being deceived and demanded a refund or proper restitution. His dissatisfaction was clearly detailed, demonstrating that even in ancient times, business transactions were expected to meet certain standards.
This clay tablet offers a fascinating glimpse into early commercial practices, showing that issues of trust, quality, and customer satisfaction have existed for millennia. It also underscores the importance of written records in commerce, proving that accountability in trade was as relevant then as it is today.
Though Ea-nasir’s response remains unknown, this ancient complaint serves as a timeless reminder that customers have always voiced their concerns—whether by email, phone, or inscribed clay.
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