The Babylonians

The Babylonians built one of the most influential civilizations of the ancient world, rising from the fertile lands between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers to shape law, science, religion, and imperial power for centuries. Centered on the legendary city of Babylon, their achievements left a permanent mark on the history of the Near East and beyond. This book explores the origins of Babylonian civilization within the broader context of Mesopotamia, tracing its development from early city-states to the powerful Old Babylonian Kingdom under Hammurabi. Readers will discover how the Code of Hammurabi became one of the earliest and most sophisticated legal systems in human history, establishing principles that would echo through later civilizations. The narrative continues with the Neo-Babylonian Empire and the reign of Nebuchadnezzar II, who transformed Babylon into a magnificent imperial capital adorned with monumental architecture, including the Ishtar Gate and the fabled Hanging Gardens. The book also examines Babylonian astronomy, mathematics, religious beliefs, and cultural life, highlighting innovations that influenced Greek science and biblical traditions. From its golden age to its conquest by the Persian Empire, this concise yet comprehensive study reveals how the Babylonians shaped political organization, intellectual thought, and the cultural foundations of the ancient world.