The Babylonian Empire refers to several periods of Babylonian rule in Mesopotamia, with the most significant being:
- Old Babylonian Period (circa 1894 - 1595 BCE): This period is known for the rule of Hammurabi, who established one of the first known codes of law, the Code of Hammurabi. Under his reign, Babylon became a major political and cultural center.
- Middle Babylonian Period (circa 1595 - 1155 BCE): Following the fall of Hammurabi's dynasty, Babylon was controlled by the Kassites, who brought stability and prosperity, though this period is less known for its own contributions to Babylonian culture.
- Neo-Babylonian Empire (626 - 539 BCE): This is the period when Babylon experienced its last great resurgence under rulers like Nebuchadnezzar II. During this time, the Hanging Gardens, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, were purportedly built, though their existence remains debated.
Geography and Expansion
The Babylonian Empire was centered around the city of Babylon in what is now modern-day Iraq. It controlled a vast area that included parts of modern-day Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Israel. The empire's expansion was often through conquest, diplomacy, or vassalage, with significant influence over trade routes and the Fertile Crescent.
Culture and Achievements
- Language and Literature: The Babylonians used Akkadian as their primary language, and their literature included epic tales like the Epic of Gilgamesh.
- Mathematics and Astronomy: Babylonian scholars made significant contributions to mathematics, developing a base-60 number system, which influenced timekeeping and geometry. They also advanced astronomy, tracking planetary movements and creating a lunisolar calendar.
- Art and Architecture: The empire was known for its ziggurats, temple towers with stepped platforms, and the art, which often depicted scenes from mythology and daily life.
Decline and Fall
The Neo-Babylonian Empire was conquered by Cyrus the Great of the Achaemenid Empire in 539 BCE. This marked the end of Babylonian independence, though its cultural and administrative influence continued under Persian rule.
Legacy
The Babylonian Empire's contributions to law, science, literature, and architecture have had a lasting impact on Western civilization. The concept of written legal codes, mathematical systems, and astronomical observations from Babylon influenced subsequent cultures, including the Greeks and Romans.
References
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