The Descent Of The Sumerian Civilization And The Rise Of The Akkadian Empire

The Sumerian civilization, known as one of the earliest civilizations in human history, flourished in Mesopotamia, present-day southern Iraq, from around 4500 BC to 1900 BC. With their advanced knowledge in writing, governance, and architecture, the Sumerians laid the foundation for future empires and societies. However, the dominance of the Sumerians eventually waned, giving rise to the Akkadian Empire, which would go on to shape the course of history. Join us as we delve into the intriguing journey of the Sumerians and the consequential emergence of the Akkadian Empire.

The Sumerian Civilization: A Remarkable Legacy

The Sumerians were a highly sophisticated society that brought numerous innovations and advancements to the ancient world. One of their most remarkable achievements was the invention of writing, known as cuneiform. This system utilized wedge-shaped marks on clay tablets, which allowed the Sumerians to record their history, create legal codes, and even compose epic tales such as the famous "Epic of Gilgamesh."

Furthermore, the Sumerians were skilled architects, constructing impressive Ziggurats—tower-like structures with multiple terraces—which served as temples to honor their gods. These architectural marvels still captivate our imagination today, providing insight into the religious beliefs and societal structures of ancient Mesopotamia.

The Descent of the Sumerian Civilization and the Rise of the Akkadian Empire

by Norman Longmate(Kindle Edition)

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Language	:	English
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Another area in which the Sumerians excelled was governance. They established city-states that were governed by assemblies and councils, fostering a sense of communal decision-making. This early form of governance set the stage for future political systems, influencing civilizations that would follow.

Despite their many achievements, the once-thriving Sumerian civilization began to decline around 2000 BC. The reasons for this decline are complex and multifaceted, but one significant factor was the constant invasions and pressure from neighboring societies, such as the Elamites and Amorites.

The Rise of the Akkadian Empire: A New Era

As the Sumerian civilization weakened, a new power rose in the region—the Akkadian Empire. Led by the ambitious ruler Sargon the Great, the Akkadians conquered the city-states of Sumer and established their dominance over a vast territory.

The Akkadians adopted much from the Sumerians in terms of culture, governance, and language. They continued the use of cuneiform writing and built upon the architectural legacy left by their predecessors. However, the Akkadians also introduced their own innovations, such as a centralized bureaucracy that allowed for efficient administration of their expanding empire.

Under Sargon the Great's leadership, the Akkadian Empire flourished, reaching its peak around 2300 BC. Sargon implemented military reforms, expanded trade routes, and established diplomatic relations with neighboring kingdoms. These actions solidified the empire's power and influence, ensuring its longevity in the years to come.

Despite its significant achievements, the Akkadian Empire faced its own challenges. Internal disputes and external pressures posed threats to its stability. Sargon's successors struggled to maintain the empire's vast territory, ultimately leading to its decline and fall by around 2150 BC.

The Legacy of the Sumerians and Akkadians

The decline of the Sumerian civilization and the rise and fall of the Akkadian Empire marked a period of transition in Mesopotamian history. Although these empires left a lasting impact on subsequent civilizations, their greatest contribution lies in their cultural and intellectual legacies.

Sumerian literature, such as the epic tales and hymns, served as the foundation for future literary works in the region. The Akkadians built upon this literary tradition, leaving behind their own epic poems and historical records. These texts continue to provide valuable insights into the lives, beliefs, and achievements of these ancient civilizations.

Moreover, the influence of the Sumerians and Akkadians can be seen in subsequent political and administrative systems. The concept of city-states and communal decision-making was adopted by many later societies, including the Greeks and Romans.

, the descent of the Sumerian civilization and the rise of the Akkadian Empire represent a significant turning point in ancient history. The Sumerians' remarkable achievements laid the foundation for future civilizations, while the Akkadians introduced their own innovations and expanded upon Sumerian culture. The legacies of both civilizations continue to shape our understanding of human history, reminding us of the ingenuity and resilience of those who came before us.

The Descent of the Sumerian Civilization and the Rise of the Akkadian Empire

by Norman Longmate(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	96482 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	123 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Sargon of Agade or Akkad is a name associated primarily with later Mesopotamian tradition, and modern writers view his reign as one of the most crucial periods in the ancient history of his country. As Nabonidus mentions the age of Naram-Sin in his text, the Dynasty of Akkad has become the canon to measure the relative ages of other dynasties of rulers whose inscriptions have been found on various Mesopotamian sites in the past. Despite those historians who have refused to place reliance upon the figures of Nabonidus, Sargon's position in history has not been diminished by their refusal; and, since tradition associates his name with the establishment of his empire, the terms "Pre-Sargonic" and "Post-Sargonic" have been used to describe the earlier and later phases in the history of Sumer and Akkad. The discovery of early inscriptions and tablets attributed to Shar-Gani-Sharri of Akkad removed any tendency to discount the historical value of the later traditions, and identify Shar-Gani-Sharri with Sargon of the Assyrian and Neo-Mesopotamian scribes ceased to be questioned. Sargon of Agade's historical character is a point in early Mesopotamian history that can be considered solidly established. A recent discovery at Susa has added another dimension to the discussion and opened it up along unfamiliar lines. To explain and reconcile the new data with the old, it will be helpful to briefly mention the steps by which Sargon's name was recovered and his place in history determined.