TED-ED: The rise and fall of the Assyrian Empire - Marian H. Feldman

The video explores the history of ancient Assyria, considered the first true empire. It highlights Assyria's rise from a city-state to a vast empire through military innovation and efficient administration. The Assyrians were known for their cultural achievements, including the creation of a vast library. Despite their fall to the Babylonians and Medes, Assyrian innovations in administration and infrastructure influenced future empires.

What was the significance of Ashur in the early history of Assyria?

• It was the first capital of the Roman Empire.

• It was a major trading center and the origin of Assyria's transformation into a territorial state.

• It was the birthplace of Genghis Khan.

• It was the site of the first Olympic Games.

Which strategy did the Assyrians use to maintain control over their empire?

• Forming alliances with neighboring empires

• Establishing a democratic government

• Deporting local populations and redistributing them

• Building walls around every city

How did Assyrian kings celebrate their military achievements?

• By writing poems

• By hosting annual festivals

• By building statues in every conquered city

• By carving representations of their exploits into palace walls

What cultural tradition did the Assyrians see themselves as inheritors and protectors of?

• Greek philosophy

• Babylonian cultural traditions

• Egyptian hieroglyphics

• Roman law

What was one of the purposes of the elaborate parks and gardens in Assyrian capital cities?

• To act as marketplaces for trade

• To host international sports events

• To house plants and animals from around the empire

• To serve as military training grounds

What form did Ashurbanipal's library take?

• Clay tablets inscribed with cuneiform

• Scrolls made of papyrus

• Books bound in leather

• Digital archives

What was one of the lasting impacts of the Assyrian Empire on future civilizations?

• The creation of the first written language

• The development of the first democracy

• The emphasis on efficient administration and infrastructure

• The invention of the wheel