Kassite Dynasty

After the Hittites withdrew, the Kassites, a people from the Zagros Mountains, took control.

Highlights of the Kassite Era:

• Babylon experienced long-term stability (over 400 years).
• Territory was smaller, but culturally rich.
• Establishment of diplomatic ties with Egypt, Hatti, and Assyria.
• Rebuilding of temples and cities.

Notable Kings:

• Agum II — restored stolen Babylonian gods from the Hittites.
• Kurigalzu I & II — founded the new capital, Dur-Kurigalzu.
• Kadur-Enlil II — maintained peace and trade.

The Kassite period ended with invasions by the Elamites.

Army

• Strong cavalry units (Kassites were skilled horse breeders).
• Chariots improved with lighter frames.
• Use of bronze-scale armor.
• Avoided large conquests — focused on defense and diplomatic stability.

People & Society

• Longest and one of the most stable dynasties in Babylonian history.
• Kassites assimilated into Babylonian culture but kept some customs.
• Rural estates and palace lands expanded.
• Administrative reforms: provinces and local governors.

Religion

• Worship of Babylonian gods continued: Marduk, Ishtar, Shamash.
• Kassites introduced some new deities:
  • Shuqamuna and Shumalia
• Massive rebuilding of temples.
• Festivals remained central to social life.

Economy

• International trade flourished with Egypt and Hatti.
• Bronze industry reached its peak.
• Land grants (kurkur) created a class of loyal nobility.
• Adoption of the kudurru — inscribed boundary stones recording land deals.

Culture

• Rich artistic development: cylinder seals, pottery, Kassite motifs.
• Improved architecture: Dur-Kurigalzu (new capital).
• Continued astronomical observations.