Babylonians

Babylonians were an ancient Akkadian-speaking people who lived in central-southern Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq). They are best known for their contributions to law, astronomy, mathematics, and literature. The city of Babylon, their capital, was one of the most important cities of the ancient world.

History

The history of the Babylonians is divided into several periods:

Old Babylonian Period

The Old Babylonian Period (circa 2000–1595 BCE) saw the rise of Babylon as a major power under the rule of Hammurabi, who is best known for the Code of Hammurabi, one of the earliest and most complete written legal codes.

Kassite Period

Following the fall of the Old Babylonian Empire, the Kassites took control and ruled for several centuries. This period is less well-documented but is known for the continuation of Babylonian culture and the introduction of new elements.

Neo-Babylonian Period

The Neo-Babylonian Period (626–539 BCE) is perhaps the most famous era, marked by the reign of Nebuchadnezzar II, who is credited with the construction of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This period ended with the conquest of Babylon by the Achaemenid Empire under Cyrus the Great.

Culture

Babylonian culture was rich and diverse, heavily influenced by their Sumerian predecessors. They made significant advancements in various fields:

Law

The Code of Hammurabi is one of the most significant legal documents from ancient Mesopotamia. It consists of 282 laws covering various aspects of daily life, including trade, family, and labor.

Astronomy

Babylonians were pioneers in the field of astronomy. They developed a sophisticated understanding of celestial movements and created detailed star catalogs. Their work laid the foundation for later astronomical studies by the Greeks and Islamic Golden Age scholars.

Mathematics

Babylonian mathematics was advanced for its time. They used a base-60 (sexagesimal) number system, which is still used today in measuring time and angles. They also developed methods for solving quadratic equations and understanding geometric principles.

Literature

Babylonian literature includes a wealth of mythological and epic texts. The most famous is the Epic of Gilgamesh, which tells the story of the eponymous hero and his quest for immortality.

Religion

Babylonian religion was polytheistic, with a pantheon of gods and goddesses. The chief deity was Marduk, who became the patron god of Babylon. Religious practices included temple rituals, festivals, and the construction of ziggurats, which were massive temple complexes.

Legacy

The legacy of the Babylonians is profound, influencing subsequent cultures and civilizations. Their advancements in law, astronomy, and mathematics have had a lasting impact on human history.

See also

• Mesopotamia
• Sumerians
• Assyrians
• Akkadian Empire
• Hittites
• Persian Empire