Adad-nirari II facts for kids

Adad-nirari II was a powerful king of Assyria. He ruled from 911 to 891 BC. Many historians see him as the first king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire. This was a new and very strong period for Assyria.

Becoming King and Making Assyria Strong

Economic recovery in the reign of Adad-nirari II

Adad-nirari II became king after his father, Ashur-dan II. When he took the throne, some areas that were supposed to be loyal to Assyria might have rebelled.

He worked hard to bring these areas back under Assyrian control. He conquered and moved groups like the Arameans who caused trouble. This happened after a big battle in 910 BC.

He also defeated groups in the north, like the Neo-Hittite and Hurrians.

Inscribed stone tablet of Adad-nirari II from Assur, Iraq Museum

King Adad-nirari II attacked and defeated Babylonia twice. He took a large amount of land north of the Diyala River. He also captured the towns of Hīt and Zanqu in central Mesopotamia. Later in his rule, he gained even more land from Babylonia.

He also led campaigns to the west. There, he brought the Aramean cities of Kadmuh and Nisibin under his rule. He collected a lot of treasure and secured the important Khabur river region.

A Time of Growth and Trade

Adad-nirari II's reign was a time when the Middle East became rich again. Trade routes grew, connecting different parts of the ancient world. These routes linked Anatolia, Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Mediterranean Sea. This made the region more prosperous.

His son, Tukulti-Ninurta II, followed him as king. Tukulti-Ninurta II continued to fight against Assyria's enemies.

Dating History

Thanks to detailed records from Adad-nirari II's time, we can be very sure about the dates of events. His first year as king, 911 BC, is one of the earliest events in ancient Near Eastern history that we can date to an exact year. This shows how well the Assyrians kept track of their history.

See also

In Spanish: Adad-nirari II para niños