Why did kings and priests make up the highest level of the Sumerian social pyramid? They worked their way to the top.
They were artisans and farmers.
They had influence with the gods.
They were merchants and landowners.

They had influence with the gods.

Explanation:

Social structure is the classification or grading of various classes of society according to their importance and position. This pyramid classed the various groups in accordance with their power and also makes it eminent for the people to understand and be aware of their social standing.

According to this pyramid, the kings or more commonly known as Pharaoh were at the top of the pyramid and they possess the overall authority of the whole people, next to the gods. After they are the priests who are the medium through which the people communicate with the gods. The Pharaoh and the priests are believed to be influenced by the gods and as such, they are given such important positions in the societal pyramid.

there were abundant sources of fuel nearby