Assyrian Military Tactics and Innovations

The video explores the Assyrian Empire's military innovations, focusing on the creation of the first professional national standing army. It details the army's structure, the reforms by Tiglath-Pileser III, and the Assyrians' unique approach to warfare as a religious duty. The Assyrians were pioneers in using cavalry and siege engines, and their military strategies enabled rapid expansion and control over vast territories.

What was a key characteristic of the world's first professional national standing army created by the Assyrians?

• Soldiers were volunteers.

• Soldiers were hired and compensated.

• Soldiers were only from the nobility.

• Soldiers were part-time warriors.

Who was the most prestigious part of the Assyrian army typically manned by?

• Foreigners

• Nobility

• Mercenaries

• Peasants

What was a significant difference in the Assyrian military model compared to their contemporaries?

• They avoided warfare due to religious beliefs.

• They relied solely on mercenaries.

• Every man was considered a soldier.

• They had a small standing army.

What was the religious motivation for the Assyrians to go to war?

• To expand territory

• To defend against invaders

• To gain wealth

• To fulfill a duty to the god Ashur

What was one of the first actions taken by Tiglath-Pileser III after usurping the throne?

• He increased taxes on the nobility.

• He expanded the empire immediately.

• He reduced the power of the governors.

• He disbanded the standing army.

How did Tiglath-Pileser III reform the Assyrian army?

• By focusing only on naval power

• By disbanding the army during peacetime

• By introducing a professional national standing army

• By relying solely on mercenaries

What innovation in warfare is attributed to the Assyrians?

• The development of nuclear weapons

• The use of naval fleets

• The invention of gunpowder

• The use of cavalry as combat participants

What tactic did the Assyrians use during sieges if a city did not surrender?

• They offered peace treaties.

• They withdrew their forces.

• They brutally eviscerated captives.

• They built walls around the city.

What infrastructure did the Assyrians build to support their military campaigns?

• Castles

• Railways

• Road networks

• Airports

What was a common tribute demanded by the Assyrian Empire from its vassal states?

• Slaves

• Ships

• Land

• Precious metals