Mesopotamian Ruler who became the King of Akkad: Sargon

Sargon, also known as Sargon of Akkad, was the Mesopotamian ruler who became the king of Akkad in 2370 BCE. He is considered one of the most influential figures in ancient Mesopotamia and played a pivotal role in the development of the Akkadian Empire.

Background:
- Mesopotamia was an ancient region located in the eastern Mediterranean, between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.
- The city of Akkad was situated in northern Mesopotamia, near the present-day city of Baghdad, Iraq.
- Before Sargon, the city-states of Mesopotamia were independent entities with their own rulers and governance systems.

Establishment of the Akkadian Empire:
- Sargon was born as a commoner but rose to power through his military skills and political strategies.
- He served as a cupbearer to the ruler of Kish, Ur-Zababa, but eventually overthrew him and established his own dynasty.
- Sargon then embarked on a series of military campaigns to conquer the city-states of Mesopotamia.
- By successfully expanding his territory, Sargon laid the foundation for the Akkadian Empire, which became the first empire in history.

Contributions and Legacy:
- Sargon's reign marked a significant shift in the political landscape of Mesopotamia.
- He established a centralized government, with Akkad as the capital, and appointed governors to oversee the conquered territories.
- Sargon implemented administrative reforms, standardized laws, and promoted trade and commerce, leading to economic prosperity.
- His reign also witnessed advancements in art, literature, and architecture, with Akkad becoming a center of cultural innovation.
- Sargon's empire lasted for about 150 years, and even after its decline, the Akkadian language and culture continued to influence the region.

Influence on Future Rulers:
- Sargon's success as a conqueror and his establishment of a powerful empire set a precedent for future rulers.
- Many later rulers in Mesopotamia and beyond sought to emulate his achievements and adopt imperial titles.
- Sargon's legacy also had an impact on the development of dynastic rule and the concept of kingship.

In conclusion, Sargon, the Mesopotamian ruler, became the king of Akkad in 2370 BCE. His military campaigns, administrative reforms, and cultural advancements laid the foundation for the Akkadian Empire and influenced future rulers in the region.