AKKADIANS

The Akkadians were a Semitic people who lived in the ancient region of Mesopotamia, approximately around 2334-2154 BCE. They are known for creating the first empire in world history, the Akkadian Empire, under the rule of Sargon the Great.

Key Facts about the Akkadians

• Origin: The Akkadians originated from the city of Akkad, located in the northern part of Mesopotamia.
• Language: They spoke Akkadian, a Semitic language that later became the lingua franca of the region.
• Empire: Sargon the Great, a powerful Akkadian ruler, conquered Sumer and other neighboring city-states, establishing the first known empire in human history.
• Contributions: The Akkadians made significant contributions in the fields of literature, mathematics, and astronomy. They also developed an advanced system of writing known as cuneiform.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember about the Akkadians:

1. Who were the Akkadians and where did they originate from?
2. What was the significance of the Akkadian Empire?
3. What were some of the contributions of the Akkadians to civilization?
4. How did the Akkadians impact the development of writing and language?
5. Discuss the military and political achievements of Sargon the Great.

Understanding the Akkadians and their empire is crucial for comprehending the early civilizations of Mesopotamia and the broader development of human societies.

[Akkadians] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• MesopotamiaSocial Studies • Eighth Grade