Mesopotamia empires

Sumer

The earliest known civilization in Mesopotamia, existing from 4000-3000 B.C.

Akkadian Empire

Established around 2300 B.C., it was the world's first empire, ruled by Sargon, who had a permanent army.

Babylonian Empire

Emerging around 1800 B.C., it was ruled by Hammurabi, who created a code of 282 laws dictating justice.

Hittites

A civilization present between 1700-1200 B.C., known for their strong iron weapons and use of chariots in battle.

Assyrian Empire

A dominant and violent empire from 1200-600 B.C., known for its high taxes and fierce military.

Chaldean Empire

Flourishing from 630-530 B.C., known for rebuilding Babylon and creating the Hanging Gardens under Nebuchadnezzar.

Phoenicians

Society that emerged around 530 B.C., based on trade; known for their fast ships and one of the world's first alphabets.