Assyrian Empire’s Military Expansion & Art as Propaganda

How did Assyria achieve its rapid expansion?

• Through trade and diplomacy

• By forming alliances with neighbouring kingdoms

• By force and military conquest

• Through cultural assimilation

What characterized the Assyrian army during the mid-8th century BC?

• They had a navy dominating the Mediterranean Sea.

• They relied solely on infantry.

• They had a professional standing army with chariots, cavalry, and infantry.

• They employed mercenaries from neighbouring regions.

How did the Assyrians breach the fortifications of large cities?

• Through diplomatic negotiations

• By using psychological tactics

• With siege engines, battering rams, and sappers

• By waiting for the city to surrender peacefully

What was the fate of defeated populations under Assyrian rule?

• They were given autonomy to govern themselves.

• They were integrated peacefully into Assyrian society.

• They were forcibly deported and resettled elsewhere within the empire.

• They were left untouched, but required to pay tribute.

How did the Assyrian Empire maintain control over its vassals?

• Through economic incentives and trade agreements

• By forming mutual defence pacts

• Through the threat of military force and brutality

• By establishing democratic institutions

How did the Assyrians extract wealth after military conquests?

• By establishing fair trade agreements with conquered territories

• Through the sale of luxury goods produced within the empire

• By plundering, tribute payments, taxation, and resettlement of populations

• By relying on agricultural surpluses from conquered lands

How did ancient Assyrians use art as a form of propaganda?

• By promoting freedom of expression

• By depicting scenes of peace and harmony

• By showcasing military conquests and the power of the king

• By highlighting the importance of spiritual enlightenment

What types of scenes were commonly depicted in Assyrian art?

• Scenes of everyday life and mundane activities

• Abstract patterns and geometric designs

• Religious ceremonies and rituals

• Scenes of warfare, hunting, and tribute-paying

What message did Assyrian art convey about the king's power and authority?

• That the king ruled with compassion and mercy

• That the king relied on diplomacy and negotiation

• That the king’s power was absolute and unchallenged

• That the king shared power equally with his subjects

How did Assyrian art influence perceptions of the empire's strength and invincibility?

• By depicting scenes of defeat and humiliation

• By portraying the empire as weak and vulnerable

• By showcasing the might of the Assyrian army and victories in battle

• By emphasising the importance of diplomacy and peaceful coexistence