Neo-Assyrian Empire

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== Neo-Assyrian Empire ==

The Neo-Assyrian Empire was an ancient Mesopotamian empire that existed between 911 BC and 609 BC. It is considered one of the most powerful empires of the ancient Near East. The empire is known for its military prowess, advanced administrative system, and significant cultural achievements.

History

The Neo-Assyrian Empire succeeded the Middle Assyrian Empire and marked the final and most powerful phase of the Assyrian Empire. The empire's expansion began under the reign of Adad-nirari II, who reigned from 911 BC to 891 BC. The empire reached its zenith under the rule of Tiglath-Pileser III, Sargon II, Sennacherib, and Ashurbanipal.

Major Rulers

• Adad-nirari II (911–891 BC): Initiated the expansion of the empire.
• Tiglath-Pileser III (745–727 BC): Reformed the military and administrative systems.
• Sargon II (722–705 BC): Expanded the empire to its greatest extent.
• Sennacherib (705–681 BC): Known for his military campaigns and the destruction of Babylon.
• Ashurbanipal (668–627 BC): Presided over the empire's cultural zenith and the creation of the Library of Ashurbanipal.

Administration

The Neo-Assyrian Empire was known for its sophisticated administrative system. The empire was divided into provinces, each governed by an appointed official. The central government maintained strict control over these provinces through a network of spies and messengers. The use of cuneiform writing for record-keeping and communication was widespread.

Military

The Neo-Assyrian military was one of the most formidable forces of the ancient world. It was characterized by its use of iron weapons, cavalry, and siege warfare techniques. The empire's military campaigns were often brutal, involving mass deportations and the destruction of cities.

Culture

The Neo-Assyrian Empire made significant contributions to art, architecture, and literature. The Library of Ashurbanipal in Nineveh is one of the most famous cultural achievements of the empire, containing thousands of cuneiform tablets. The empire is also known for its monumental architecture, including the palaces of Nimrud and Nineveh.

Decline and Fall

The decline of the Neo-Assyrian Empire began in the late 7th century BC. Internal strife, combined with external pressures from the Medes, Babylonians, and Scythians, led to the empire's downfall. The final blow came in 609 BC when the Assyrian capital of Nineveh was sacked.

Related Pages

• Assyrian Empire
• Middle Assyrian Empire
• Tiglath-Pileser III
• Sargon II
• Sennacherib
• Ashurbanipal
• Library of Ashurbanipal
• Nineveh
• Nimrud
• Babylon