Rulers of Babylon

Rulers of Babylon
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Name	Rulers of Babylon
Caption	The Ishtar Gate, one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was built during the reign of Nebuchadnezzar II, a notable ruler of Babylon.

Rulers of Babylon

The Rulers of Babylon were the kings and queens who governed the ancient city of Babylon, located in present-day Iraq, from its founding to its fall. The rulers of Babylon played a significant role in shaping the city's history, culture, and politics, and their legacy continues to influence the modern world. This article provides an overview of the rulers of Babylon, including their dynasties, notable kings, and vassals.

List of Rulers of Babylon

The list of rulers of Babylon is extensive and includes kings and queens from various dynasties. Some of the most notable rulers include Sargon the Great, who founded the Akkadian Empire and unified Mesopotamia; Hammurabi, who established the Old Babylonian Empire and created the famous Code of Hammurabi; and Nebuchadnezzar II, who built the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and conquered Jerusalem.

Dynasties of Babylon

The rulers of Babylon can be grouped into several dynasties, including the Akkadian dynasty, the Old Babylonian dynasty, the Kassite dynasty, and the Neo-Babylonian dynasty. Each dynasty had its own distinct characteristics and achievements, and they often interacted with other ancient civilizations, such as Ancient Egypt and Ancient Assyria.

Kings of the Old Babylonian Period

During the Old Babylonian period, which lasted from approximately 1834 to 1531 BCE, Babylon was ruled by a series of kings, including Sumu-abum, Sumu-la-El, and Hammurabi. These kings expanded Babylon's territory, established trade relationships with other cities, and developed the city's culture and laws.

Neo-Babylonian Empire Rulers

The Neo-Babylonian Empire, which lasted from approximately 626 to 539 BCE, was a period of significant growth and achievement for Babylon. Rulers such as Nabopolassar, Nebuchadnezzar II, and Belshazzar expanded the empire's territory, built impressive architectural projects, and promoted the city's culture and trade.

Vassals and Tributaries of Babylon

Throughout its history, Babylon had various vassals and tributaries, including the Kingdom of Judah, which was conquered by Nebuchadnezzar II in 586 BCE. Other vassals and tributaries included the Phoenicians, the Arameans, and the Medes.

Queens and Regents of Babylon

Women also played important roles in the government of Babylon, including as queens and regents. Notable examples include Amytis, the wife of Astyages and the mother of Cyrus the Great, and Nitocris, a queen who ruled Babylon during the Neo-Babylonian Empire.

Genealogy and Succession

The genealogy and succession of the rulers of Babylon were often complex and influenced by factors such as family ties, military power, and divine right. The rulers of Babylon often claimed divine ancestry and legitimacy, and their succession was often determined by a combination of hereditary and elective principles.

Category:Ancient Babylon