Sargon facts for kids
Sargon is a name given to several powerful kings from ancient times, especially in the region of Mesopotamia. This name is often found in texts like the Bible. However, in their own languages, these kings had slightly different names. The most famous Sargons were known for building large empires and changing history.
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Sargon of Akkad: The First Great Emperor
Sargon of Akkad, also known as Sargon the Great, was a very important king who lived around 2334 to 2279 BC. He is famous for creating the world's first large empire, called the Akkadian Empire. Before Sargon, Mesopotamia was made up of many separate city-states, like small countries. Sargon managed to unite them all under his rule.
How Sargon Built His Empire
Sargon started as a cup-bearer for the king of Kish. But he was very ambitious and became king himself. He then conquered many cities, including Sumer and Akkad, which became the center of his new empire. His army was very strong and helped him control a vast area, from the Persian Gulf to the Mediterranean Sea.
Life in the Akkadian Empire
Under Sargon, the Akkadian Empire brought peace and order to a large region. People could travel and trade more easily. The empire also developed a system of writing and administration. Sargon's rule lasted for about 56 years, and his empire continued for some time after he died, influencing later civilizations in Mesopotamia.
Sargon II: A Mighty Assyrian King
Sargon II was another powerful king, but he lived much later, from 722 to 705 BC. He was a ruler of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, which was one of the largest and most powerful empires of its time. The Assyrians were known for their strong army and impressive building projects.
Sargon II's Military Campaigns
Sargon II spent much of his reign leading his army. He fought against many enemies and expanded the Assyrian Empire. One of his most famous actions was conquering the ancient kingdom of Israel and taking its people captive. He also fought against the kingdom of Urartu and others to secure his borders.
Building a New Capital
Sargon II was also a great builder. He decided to build a brand new capital city called Dur-Sharrukin (meaning "Fortress of Sargon"). This city was designed to be magnificent, with a huge palace, temples, and strong walls. Sadly, Sargon II died in battle before the city was fully finished, and his son, Sennacherib, moved the capital to Nineveh.
Other Kings Named Sargon
While Sargon of Akkad and Sargon II are the most well-known, there was also Šarru-kên I, an earlier Assyrian king who lived around 1900 BC. He is sometimes referred to as Sargon I in some historical texts.
