Suppiluliuma II facts for kids
Suppiluliuma II was the very last known king of the Hittite Empire. He was the son of Tudhaliya IV. Suppiluliuma II ruled from about 1207 BCE to 1178 BCE. During his time, another important ruler, Tukulti-Ninurta I, was king in Assyria.
We know about Suppiluliuma II from two special stone carvings. These carvings use a picture-based writing system called hieroglyphics. They tell us that he fought wars against a kingdom called Tarhuntassa. This kingdom used to be under Hittite control. He also fought against Alasiya, which is located on the island of Cyprus.
After Suppiluliuma II's rule, the Hittite Empire fell apart. It's thought that a group called the Kaskians took control of the Hittite heartland. The capital city, Hattusa, was destroyed. It stayed empty for about 500 years. Later, a new group called the Phrygians built a fortress there.
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Who Was Suppiluliuma II?
Suppiluliuma II was a powerful king. He was the last in a long line of rulers. His family had built the Hittite Empire into a major power. The Hittites were known for their strong army. They were also famous for their iron working.
The End of an Empire
The time when Suppiluliuma II ruled was difficult. Many ancient civilizations were facing problems. This period is sometimes called the Late Bronze Age collapse. It was a time of big changes and troubles. Many cities were destroyed. Trade routes were broken.
Why Did the Hittite Empire Fall?
Historians are not completely sure why the Hittite Empire ended. It was likely a mix of problems. These might have included:
- Wars with other groups, like the "Sea Peoples."
- Famines or not enough food.
- Internal problems within the empire.
- The destruction of important cities like Hattusa.
Suppiluliuma II's Wars
The stone carvings tell us about two main conflicts. These were important events during his reign. They show that he was still trying to protect his empire.
Fighting Tarhuntassa
Tarhuntassa was a kingdom that had been part of the Hittite Empire. It was a "vassal" state. This means it was controlled by the Hittites. Suppiluliuma II had to fight against them. This suggests that some parts of the empire were trying to break free.
Battles in Cyprus
Suppiluliuma II also fought against Alasiya. This was a kingdom on the island of Cyprus. Fighting here shows that the Hittites were still active in the Mediterranean Sea. They were trying to keep control of important trade routes.
| Preceded by Arnuwanda III |
Hittite king |
Succeeded by Unknown |
Images for kids
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Chamber 2 built and inscribed by Suppiluliuma II at Hattusa
See also
In Spanish: Suppiluliuma II para niños
