Hammurabi

ancient history · mesopotamia · laws · leadership

Powerful Babylonian King. Hammurabi ruled Babylon around 1792 to 1750 BC and became one of the most famous kings of the ancient world. He took over the throne from his father, Sin-Muballit, and spent much of his reign conquering neighboring city-states.

United Mesopotamia. Through smart military strategy and conquest, Hammurabi brought almost all of Mesopotamia under Babylonian control. He defeated powerful rivals like the rulers of Larsa, Eshnunna, and Mari, making Babylon the dominant power in the region.

Created Famous Law Code. Hammurabi is best remembered for creating the Code of Hammurabi, one of the oldest written law codes in human history. These laws were carved into stone and told everyone what was fair and what punishments they would face if they broke rules.