Overview

• Sumer conquered by Sargon of Akkad, forming the first empire.
• Sumerians remain culturally influential.

People & Society

• Sumerians and Akkadians intermingle.
• Bilingual administration.

Religion

• Syncretism: Sumerian gods merged with Akkadian gods.
• Major temples continue functioning.

Economy

• Empire-wide trading system.
• Expansion of irrigation and agriculture.

Army

• Highly organized standing army of 5,000–10,000.
• Bronze weapons, helmets, archers, axe-men.
• Advanced siege tactics introduced.