Sargon of Akkad
Akkadian founder of the Akkadian Empire
Mesopotamian ruler who around 2334 BCE built what is often called the world's first empire, uniting the city-states of Sumer and Akkad.
- Affiliations
- Akkadian Empire
Sargon of Akkad rose, by later legend, from humble origins as a cupbearer to overthrow the king of Kish and conquer the Sumerian city-states of southern Mesopotamia. He founded the Akkadian Empire around 2334 BCE, often described as the first empire in history, and extended his reach across Mesopotamia and into neighbouring lands. He installed his own governors and his daughter Enheduanna as high priestess, and spread the Akkadian language. His exact dates are uncertain and much of his life survives only through later, semi-legendary accounts.
In the timeline
- 2335 BCE Sargon of Akkad's standing army central figure
- 2334 BCE Founding of the Akkadian Empire the founder