Samsu-iluna facts for kids

Samsu-iluna was an important king of Babylon. He ruled for 38 years, from 1750 BC to 1712 BC. He was the son of the famous king Hammurabi, who had built a large empire in Mesopotamia. Samsu-iluna became king after his father passed away in 1750 BC.

Samsu-iluna: A King's Challenges

Samsu-iluna faced many challenges during his time as king. His father, Hammurabi, had created a very large kingdom. It was hard for Samsu-iluna to keep control of all the lands his father had conquered. Many cities and regions tried to become independent.

Keeping the Kingdom Together

One of Samsu-iluna's biggest jobs was to protect Babylon. He had to fight against many groups who wanted to break away. These groups included:

• People from the south of Mesopotamia
• Nomadic tribes (people who moved from place to place)
• Other kings who wanted more power

He spent a lot of his reign trying to keep his father's empire united. This was a very difficult task.

Important Decisions and Changes

Even with all the fighting, Samsu-iluna made some important decisions. He continued to build and repair canals, which were important for farming. He also kept up the legal system that his father Hammurabi had created. This system helped keep order in the kingdom.

He also had to deal with economic problems. The constant wars made it hard for people to farm and trade. Samsu-iluna tried to help by canceling some debts for his people. This was a way to make life easier for farmers and merchants.

His Legacy and Successor

Samsu-iluna ruled for nearly four decades. He managed to keep Babylon strong, even though he lost control of some distant areas. He passed the throne to his son, Abi-Eshuh, in 1712 BC. Samsu-iluna's reign shows how difficult it can be to maintain a large empire.

Images for kids

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  Dakiya, a high official of Samsu-iluna, and son of Damiq-ilishu, the last king of the Isin Dynasty.

See also

In Spanish: Samsu-iluna para niños