THE babylonian
empire
The Babylonian Empire was one of the most influential civilizations in
Mesopotamian history. It emerged around 1894 BCE and became a
dominant power under King Hammurabi. Known for its advancements in
law, science, and architecture, Babylon left a lasting legacy that shaped
future civilizations.
The Rise of Babylon
Babylon was originally a small city-state in Mesopotamia. Around 1894
BCE, it was established as a kingdom by an Amorite dynasty. The city
gained power under Hammurabi, who ruled from 1792 to 1750 BCE.
Hammurabi expanded the empire through military conquests, uniting
much of Mesopotamia under Babylonian rule. His reign marked the first
great period of the Babylonian Empire.
Rulers of Babylon
Hammurabi is the most famous ruler of Babylon, best known for his code
of laws, the Code of Hammurabi. This set of 282 laws established
principles of justice and punishment, influencing legal systems for
centuries. His rule brought stability, improved irrigation, and strengthened
the economy.
Later, the Neo-Babylonian Empire emerged under King Nabopolassar in
the 7th century BCE. His son, Nebuchadnezzar II, became one of Babylon’s
greatest rulers. He expanded the empire, conquered Jerusalem, and built
the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the
Ancient World. However, after Nebuchadnezzar’s reign, the empire
weakened and fell to the Persian king Cyrus the Great in 539 BCE.
Inventions and Achievements
The Babylonians made significant contributions to mathematics,
astronomy, and engineering. They developed advanced systems of
timekeeping, dividing the day into 24 hours and the circle into 360 degrees.
Babylonian scholars recorded celestial movements, laying the foundation
for modern astronomy.
THE babylonian empire
Their greatest architectural achievement was the city of Babylon itself. It
featured massive walls, grand temples, and the legendary Ishtar Gate,
decorated with blue-glazed bricks and images of dragons and bulls. The
Hanging Gardens, though their existence remains debated, were described
as an engineering marvel.
Religion and Culture
Babylonian religion was polytheistic, with gods such as Marduk, the city’s
chief deity. Temples, called ziggurats, were built to honor the gods. Priests
played an essential role in society, conducting rituals and maintaining
religious traditions.
Babylonian literature included myths, hymns, and epics. The Epic of
Gilgamesh, though originally Sumerian, was preserved and adapted by the
Babylonians. The Babylonians also developed cuneiform writing for
record-keeping and storytelling.
Daily Life and Economy
Babylon’s economy was based on agriculture, trade, and craftsmanship.
Farmers grew wheat, barley, and dates, using irrigation canals to manage
water supply. Trade flourished with distant regions, bringing goods like
gold, spices, and textiles to the city.
Society was structured in classes, with the king and nobles at the top,
followed by priests, merchants, and artisans. Slaves formed the lowest
class but could sometimes buy their freedom. Women in Babylonian
society had rights, including the ability to own property and engage in
business.
The Fall of Babylon
After Nebuchadnezzar II, Babylonian power declined due to weak
leadership and internal struggles. In 539 BCE, Cyrus the Great of Persia
conquered Babylon, marking the end of its independence. However,
Babylon remained an important cultural and administrative center under
Persian rule.
the babylonian empire
1 When was Babylon established as a kingdom?
2 Who was the most famous ruler of Babylon?
3 What was Hammurabi’s greatest achievement?
4 How did Hammurabi expand the Babylonian Empire?
5 What was the Code of Hammurabi, and why was it important?
6 Who founded the Neo-Babylonian Empire?
7 What were Nebuchadnezzar II’s major accomplishments?
8 What was the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, and why is it significant?
9 What scientific contributions did the Babylonians make?
10 How did the Babylonians influence modern timekeeping?
11 What were ziggurats, and what was their purpose?
12 Who was Marduk, and why was he important to the Babylonians?
13 What literary works were preserved by the Babylonians?
14 What was the Ishtar Gate, and how was it decorated?
15 How did Babylon’s economy function?
16 What goods were traded in Babylon?
17 Describe the social structure of Babylonian society.
18 What rights did women have in Babylon?
