Sumer
One of the world’s earliest civilizations, emerging in southern Mesopotamia around 4500–1900 BCE.
Known for city-states like Ur and Uruk, the invention of cuneiform writing, and major advances in law, math, and architecture.
Developed irrigation, trade networks, and religious temples (ziggurats) that shaped later Mesopotamian cultures.
Periods & Dynasties
Babylonia was one of the most influential civilizations of the ancient Near East. Its history spans more than 1,500 years and includes major political shifts, cultural achievements, and scientific innovations that still shape the modern world.
Below is a comprehensive overview divided into historical periods, dynasties, and key rulers.
The Rise of Babylon
Before Babylon became a great power, the region was a collection of independent Sumerian and Akkadian city-states.
Middle Babylonian Period
A time of political instability.
Old Babylonian Period
This is the era where Babylon became a regional superpower.
Neo-Babylonian Period
Founded by the Chaldean Dynasty under Nabopolassar, who rebelled against the Assyrians.
Kassite Period
After the Hittites withdrew, the Kassites, a people from the Zagros Mountains, took control.
Persian, Greek & Later Rule
After the fall of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, Babylon remained culturally important but politically subordinate.