Assyria

Assyria was an ancient civilization located in the Near East, in what is now modern-day Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. It was known for its powerful empire and military prowess.

Key Facts

• Location: The Assyrian empire was located in the Tigris River valley, in the region known as Mesopotamia.
• Timeline: The Assyrian empire existed from around 2500 BCE to 612 BCE.
• Capital: The capital of Assyria was Nineveh, which was one of the largest cities in the ancient world.
• Government: The Assyrian empire was ruled by a series of kings, and had a highly centralized and bureaucratic government.

Achievements

The Assyrians were known for their military innovations, including the use of iron weapons and tactics such as siege warfare. They also built extensive road networks and developed a form of writing known as cuneiform.

Religion and Culture

The Assyrians practiced a polytheistic religion, with a pantheon of gods and goddesses. They also built elaborate palaces and temples, and were known for their intricate relief sculptures and artistic achievements.

Decline

The Assyrian empire eventually declined due to a combination of internal unrest, external invasions, and the rise of new empires in the region, such as the Babylonians and the Medes. The city of Nineveh was eventually sacked in 612 BCE, leading to the fall of the Assyrian empire.

Study Guide Questions

1. Where was the Assyrian empire located?
2. What was the capital of Assyria?
3. What were some of the achievements of the Assyrians?
4. What factors led to the decline of the Assyrian empire?

[Assyria] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• MesopotamiaSocial Studies • Eighth Grade