Where did the Akkadians migrate from? Explain how Sargon became an emperor and whom he left in charge of each of the conquered cities.
The Akkadians migrated from the Zagros Mountains in modern-day Iran. Sargon became an emperor by conquering the city-states of Sumer and unifying them under his rule. He then went on to conquer the cities of Elam, Assyria, and Mari, among others. He left governors in charge of each of the conquered cities, who were responsible for collecting taxes and maintaining order. He also appointed a high priest in each city to ensure that the gods were properly worshipped.
The Akkadians were a Semitic-speaking people who migrated from their original homeland, likely in the region of modern-day Syria, to the southern Mesopotamian region around 2350 BCE. Mesopotamia is the ancient region located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, which corresponds to modern-day Iraq.
Now, let's talk about Sargon. Sargon of Akkad was a prominent ruler who founded the Akkadian Empire in Mesopotamia. He came from humble beginnings, as he was originally a cupbearer to the previous ruler of the city-state of Kish. Sargon seized the opportunity to rise to power during a period of political instability and unrest.
To become an emperor, Sargon first formed a powerful army comprised of both Akkadians and other regional forces. Through military campaigns, he gradually conquered various city-states in Mesopotamia, including Kish, Uruk, Ur, and Lagash.
Once Sargon established his rule, he implemented a centralized government system to effectively manage his expanding empire. He appointed governors or vassals to oversee the administration of each conquered city. These governors were usually chosen from the ruling elite of the aforementioned cities, ensuring their cooperation and loyalty.
Sargon, however, didn't leave these conquered cities without any power of their own. He allowed local rulers to retain their positions of authority and titles, but under his overall dominion. This approach aimed to maintain stability within the empire and prevent widespread revolt.
By creating a vast and unified empire, Sargon of Akkad became the first ruler in history to be known as an "emperor." His empire exerted significant influence over the region for several centuries, setting the stage for the subsequent development of Mesopotamian civilization.
The Akkadians migrated from the region known as Sumer, which is located in modern-day Iraq. Sargon, the founder of the Akkadian Empire, rose to power around 2334 BCE by conquering the city-states of Sumer.
Sargon was originally a king of the city-state of Kish. Through military conquest, he gradually extended his influence over the neighboring city-states and eventually established the first empire in history, the Akkadian Empire.
After his conquest, Sargon appointed governors or vassals to rule over the conquered cities. These governors, known as ensi, acted as his representatives and exercised his authority in the respective cities. They were responsible for maintaining order, collecting taxes, and ensuring loyalty to Sargon and the Akkadian Empire.
Sargon left his daughter, Enheduanna, in charge of the city of Ur. She played a crucial role in religious and political affairs and is considered one of the first known names in history.
Although specific details about whom Sargon left in charge of each conquered city are scarce, it is known that he established a centralized administration system to control his vast empire. The goal was to maintain stability and ensure his rule over the conquered territories.