Esarhaddon

Esarhaddon was the king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire from 681 to 669 BC. He was the son and successor of Sennacherib. Esarhaddon's reign is characterized by his military campaigns and significant building projects. He successfully reconquered Babylon, which had been lost by his father, and rebuilt the city, restoring it to its former prominence.

One of Esarhaddon's most notable achievements was the conquest of Egypt in 671 BC. He defeated the Kushite rulers of the Twenty-fifth Dynasty and established Assyrian control over Lower Egypt, installing local rulers as vassals. This marked the first time Assyria had directly controlled parts of Egypt. Esarhaddon also campaigned in the Zagros Mountains against various tribes and dealt with revolts in Phoenicia.

In terms of building, Esarhaddon continued his father's work and initiated new constructions. He significantly expanded and rebuilt the city of Babylon, commissioning temples and palaces. He also undertook restoration projects at the capital city of Nineveh, including the Southwest Palace. His reign saw the continuation of Assyrian imperial administration and a focus on religious and cultural activities, including the compilation of a vast library. Esarhaddon's efforts to consolidate and expand the empire laid the groundwork for the reign of his son, Ashurbanipal.