Summary of "The Ancients" Episode: Sargon of Akkad

Hosted by Tristan Hughes and Featuring Dr. Paul Collins

Introduction

In the January 12, 2025 episode of "The Ancients", host Tristan Hughes delves into the enigmatic life and enduring legacy of Sargon of Akkad, often hailed as the world's first empire builder. Joined by Dr. Paul Collins, Assistant Keeper of Later Mesopotamia at the British Museum, the episode explores the rise, reign, and aftermath of one of history's earliest recognizable rulers.

Historical Context and Background

Sargon of Akkad emerged in the second half of the third millennium B.C. (approximately 2330 B.C.) within the fertile plains of southern Mesopotamia, present-day Iraq. This region, crisscrossed by the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, was part of the Fertile Crescent, a cradle for early civilizations and significant urban development.

Enheduanna (04:18): "Sargon of Akkad belongs to a period when the vast alluvial plains of southern Mesopotamia... were divided between city-states."

Sources and Evidence

Our understanding of Sargon primarily stems from fragmentary archaeological evidence, including cuneiform inscriptions on clay tablets and a handful of stone monuments bearing his name. Much of his story is reconstructed from later texts, which often blur the lines between historical fact and legend.

Dr. Paul Collins (07:46): "Sargon is known to us really from very, very fragmentary evidence from early on."

Rise to Power

Sargon's ascent began in the influential city-state of Kish, a major political center near modern-day Baghdad. Although details about his early life remain obscure, evidence suggests that Sargon may have been a commoner who seized power, rather than being born into royalty.

Enheduanna (12:25): "He probably was a commoner... adopts the throne name... suggesting that perhaps he wasn't [from the royal family]."

Utilizing strategic alliances and military prowess, Sargon amassed enough support to challenge and overthrow the existing ruler of Kish, establishing his authority and laying the foundation for his burgeoning empire.

Military Conquests and Empire Building

Sargon's military campaigns were extensive, extending north to modern-day Syria and south to the Persian Gulf. His conquests unified the fragmented city-states of southern Mesopotamia, effectively creating the Akkadian Empire. This unification was unprecedented, bringing together diverse regions under a centralized rule for the first time.

Enheduanna (16:05): "He marches both north up the Euphrates to places like Mari... and south to the Persian Gulf."

Despite these achievements, Sargon's empire faced continuous rebellions, indicating underlying instability within this vast political structure.

Administration and Governance

At the heart of Sargon's administration was his new capital, Agade (Akkad). Although its exact location remains archaeologically elusive, Agade served as the central hub from which Sargon governed his extensive empire. The administration heavily relied on scribes and administrative officials to manage resources, taxation, and military logistics.

Enheduanna (23:01): "The empire is held together by brute strength."

Sargon also introduced the use of Akkadian, a Semitic language, for administrative purposes, shifting away from the traditional Sumerian and laying the groundwork for future bureaucratic practices in the region.

Cultural and Religious Influence

Religion played a pivotal role in legitimizing Sargon's rule. Temples dedicated to deities like Ishtar, the goddess of battle and sexuality, were integral to maintaining divine support for the monarchy. Sargon's daughter, Enheduanna, served as the high priestess of the moon god Nanna at Ur, underscoring the intertwining of political power and religious authority.

Enheduanna (31:26): "Ishtar... was one of the most important goddesses for the Agade dynasty."

Art and architecture flourished under Sargon's reign, with the Akkadian period being marked by refined and sophisticated artistic achievements. Iconic pieces, such as the bronze head from antiquity, exemplify the era's artistic legacy, although most of these works were commissioned by his successors.

Succession and Decline

Sargon's succession passed to his sons, Rimush and Manishtushu, and later to his grandson, Naram Sin, who was eventually deified. Each successor continued to expand the empire but also faced persistent rebellions from rival city-states, highlighting the empire's inherent fragility.

Dr. Paul Collins (42:16): "Under Naram Sin, perhaps the greatest of these Agade rulers... a great rebellion occurred."

The collapse of the Akkadian Empire is often attributed to these internal conflicts and possibly to overextension, leading to its eventual fragmentation back into city-states.

Legacy and Historical Significance

Sargon's legacy as an early empire builder is both significant and debated. While some argue that true centralized empires emerged later with the Assyrians, Sargon's efforts in unifying Mesopotamia laid foundational principles for future empires, including administrative centralization and standardized taxation systems.

Enheduanna (45:02): "The idea of a centralized single political center... are the messages that are carried into the future."

Although his name faded over millennia, modern archaeological endeavors continue to seek more evidence about his reign, with potential discoveries poised to further illuminate his contributions to ancient history.

Enheduanna (47:25): "It's almost certain we'll be finding more material about Sargon from excavations in Mesopotamia."

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Paul Collins (07:46): "Sargon is known to us really from very, very fragmentary evidence from early on."

• Enheduanna (12:25): "He probably was a commoner... adopts the throne name... suggesting that perhaps he wasn't [from the royal family]."

• Enheduanna (23:01): "The empire is held together by brute strength."

• Dr. Paul Collins (42:16): "Under Naram Sin, perhaps the greatest of these Agade rulers... a great rebellion occurred."

Conclusion

The episode of "The Ancients" offers a comprehensive exploration of Sargon of Akkad, painting a vivid picture of his rise, governance, and the eventual decline of his empire. Through expert insights and engaging discussions, listeners gain a nuanced understanding of how Sargon's actions set precedents for future empires and left an indelible mark on the tapestry of ancient history.

For more episodes and in-depth explorations of ancient history, subscribe to History Hit and enjoy ad-free content along with hundreds of hours of original documentaries.