Assyrian Empire

Geography
Northern Mesopotamia (spans 4 Countries)
Syria; extends to Euphrates River Turkey; extends to Lake Van Iran; extends to Lake Urmi Iraq; extends to Kirkuk

Shamshi-Adad II
Soldier Established Ashur, the first capital of Assyria Was able to extend the kingdom north, beyond Mesopotamia His death started the demise of the empire.

Tiglath-Pileser I
Considered FATHER OF THE ASSYRIAN EMPIRE Drove out the HITTITES

Consolidation of Power
Freed themselves from Mitanni rule Had sturdy control of their land Conquer other lands

Expedition of the West

Ashurnasirpal I- led expeditions to the west Gathered tributes from weaker states Controlled the trade routes