Sargon the Great

Definition

Sargon the Great was an ancient Mesopotamian ruler who founded the Akkadian Empire around 2334 BCE, becoming one of the world's first known empires. He is best recognized for his military conquests and innovative administrative practices that unified various city-states under a centralized government, marking a significant evolution in political organization during the early world civilizations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sargon is believed to have been a cupbearer to King Ur-Zababa of Kish before seizing power and establishing his own rule.
2. He is credited with creating one of the first standing armies, which played a key role in his military campaigns and territorial expansion.
3. Sargon's empire included numerous city-states such as Uruk and Ur, which he incorporated through conquest and diplomacy.
4. He implemented a system of governors to manage different regions within his empire, enhancing efficiency and control over his vast territories.
5. Sargon's legacy influenced future empires, setting a precedent for centralized rule and military organization that would be emulated by later civilizations.

Review Questions

• How did Sargon's military strategies contribute to the formation of the Akkadian Empire?
  • Sargon's military strategies were pivotal in establishing the Akkadian Empire as he created one of the first standing armies, allowing him to effectively conquer neighboring city-states. His use of swift and coordinated attacks enabled him to expand his territory rapidly. By employing both military force and diplomatic tactics, Sargon successfully unified various regions under his centralized rule, thus laying the groundwork for a new form of governance.
• Discuss the administrative innovations introduced by Sargon the Great and their impact on governance in ancient Mesopotamia.
  • Sargon introduced several administrative innovations that transformed governance in ancient Mesopotamia. One key innovation was his establishment of regional governors who oversaw different parts of the empire, allowing for more effective management of resources and people. This system of provincial governance enabled centralized control while accommodating local customs, setting a model for future empires in managing vast territories.
• Evaluate the long-term significance of Sargon the Great's rule on subsequent empires in Mesopotamia and beyond.
  • Sargon the Great's rule had profound long-term significance for subsequent empires in Mesopotamia and beyond. His establishment of a centralized government, along with innovations in military organization and administration, influenced later rulers such as Hammurabi of Babylon. The concepts of empire-building, governance through appointed officials, and military strategy that Sargon perfected became foundational elements that would shape future civilizations' political structures, impacting how empires were conceived across history.

Related terms

Akkadian Empire:

The first ancient empire in history, established by Sargon the Great, which extended from the Persian Gulf to the Mediterranean Sea.

Ziggurat: A massive terraced structure that served as a temple and administrative center in ancient Mesopotamian cities, illustrating the architectural achievements of Sargon's time.

Cuneiform: The writing system developed by the Sumerians, which was adapted by the Akkadians for record-keeping and communication, showcasing advancements in literacy and administration.