Part 3/18:
Once a major Mesopotamian empire, Assyria thrived between the 25th century BCE and the 7th century BCE, encompassing territories in modern Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. Remarkable for its advancements in military tactics and innovations in art and architecture, Assyria reached its zenith under rulers like Ashurbanipal and Sargon II. The civilization's legacy is embedded in its artistic contributions and sophisticated governance structures, which helped shape the political landscape of the ancient Near East.