The Life of Sargon the Great

These flashcards summarize key points from the lecture about Sargon the Great's life, achievements, and historical significance.

Who was Sargon of Akkad?

Sargon of Akkad, also known as Sargon the Great, was a famous ruler of ancient Mesopotamia known for his conquests and administrative innovations.

What does Shuriken mean in Akkadian?

Shuriken means 'legitimate king' in Akkadian.

What rivers were significant to the region of Sumer during Sargon's time?

The Tigris and Euphrates rivers were significant to Sumer during Sargon's era.

Who was the king of Uma that conquered much of Sumer?

The king of Uma who conquered much of Sumer was Logal Zagese.

What was Sargon’s home city?

Sargon's home city was Azupiranu, meaning the Saffron City.

How was Sargon abandoned as an infant?

Sargon was placed in a reed basket by his mother and abandoned to the river.

Who did Sargon work for before becoming king of Kish?

Sargon was the cup bearer for Urzubaba, king of the city state of Kish.

What prophetic dream did Sargon have?

Sargon dreamt that the goddess Ishtar would drown Urzubaba in a river of blood.

What did Urzubaba interpret Sargon's dream as implying?

Urzubaba interpreted the dream as a warning that Sargon would cause his demise.

Who conquered the city state of Kish?

King Lugal Zagese of Ummah conquered the city state of Kish.

How did Sargon escape Urzubaba's treachery?

Sargon was warned by the goddess Ishtar about Urzubaba's treachery, allowing him to escape.

What did Sargon do after capturing King Lugal Zagese?

Sargon proclaimed himself the new king of Kish after capturing Lugal Zagese.

What is the significance of the Sumerian King List?

The Sumerian King List provides historical accounts about Sargon's lineage and reign.

How did Sargon consolidate power in Sumer?

Sargon used fear, diplomacy, and brute force to put down rebellions and consolidate power.

What regions did Sargon expand into outside of Mesopotamia?

Sargon expanded into regions like the Eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus, Elam, and Lebanon.

What new capital city did Sargon build?

Sargon built the capital city of Akkad, also known as Agade.

What language became the official language of administration under Sargon?

The Akkadian language became the official language for administrative purposes.

What was the main commercial center of Sargon's empire?

Agade served as the main commercial center where goods were traded.

What happened to Agade in modern times?

The ruins of Agade are still buried beneath the sands of Iraq.

How long did Sargon reign?

Sargon reigned for fifty-six years, one of the longest reigns in Mesopotamian history.

What challenges did Sargon face towards the end of his reign?

Sargon faced multiple revolts and decline in popularity towards the end of his reign.

Who succeeded Sargon after his death?

Sargon's son Rimush succeeded him after his death.

What thematic concept did Sargon change regarding kingship?

Sargon changed the concept of what a warrior king could achieve, setting a new standard.

How did Sargon’s story influence later historical figures?

Sargon inspired future conquerors and was compared to figures like Alexander the Great.

What was significant about Sargon’s administrative style?

Sargon’s administration included appointed governors and integration of Sumerian officials.

What did Sargon’s inscriptions often reflect about his character?

Sargon’s inscriptions often reflected a blend of humility and divine favor from Ishtar.

What was one of the myths about Sargon’s birth?

One myth suggested he was born of a high priestess and placed in a reed basket.

What was Sargon’s relationship with the goddess Ishtar?

Ishtar served as Sargon’s patron deity, granting him favor and power.

What did the Babylonians claim about Sargon’s life story?

Babylonians claimed Sargon's life story had many mythical elements written centuries later.

What is one way Sargon's legacy is viewed in historical context?

Sargon is viewed as a significant figure that marked the beginning of empirical human history.

What type of accounts exist of Sargon’s campaigns?

Both historical documents and arguably exaggerated propaganda exist regarding Sargon's campaigns.

What did Sargon’s reign demonstrate about governance in ancient Mesopotamia?

Sargon's reign demonstrated the complexities of governance and imperial administration.

What was one of the reactions to Sargon’s rule by the city-states of Sumer?

Many city-states in Sumer revolted against Sargon’s rule during and after his reign.

In what context are Alexander the Great and Sargon often compared?

Both are compared in the context of their impact on history and their legacies as conquerors.