Sardanapalus

Sardanapalus, also known as Sardanapalus of Assyria, was a king of Assyria who ruled from 722 to 705 BCE. He is notable for his role in the fall of the Neo-Assyrian Empire. Sardanapalus ascended to the throne following the assassination of his father, Tiglath-Pileser III. His reign was marked by internal strife and external threats, including rebellions and invasions by the Arameans and Babylonians.

One of the most significant events of Sardanapalus' reign was the Battle of Qarqar in 705 BCE, where his forces were defeated by the Arameans. This defeat marked the beginning of the end for the Neo-Assyrian Empire. Sardanapalus himself was killed in the battle, and his death is famously described in the Bible as an example of the futility of war. The fall of Assyria under Sardanapalus' reign led to a period of decline and fragmentation, ultimately paving the way for the rise of other empires in the region.