After the Akkadian Empire, several ancient empires and cultures emerged from Mesopotamia. Notably, these include:
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The Babylonian Empire: Following the collapse of the Akkadian Empire, Babylon rose to prominence, particularly during the reign of Hammurabi in the 18th century BCE. Babylon became a major center of culture, law, and trade.
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The Assyrian Empire: Emerging slightly later, the Assyrian Empire became a dominant force in the region, known for its military prowess and extensive use of iron weapons. Assyria reached its peak in the 9th to 7th centuries BCE and included major cities like Ashur, Nineveh, and Nimrud.
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The Neo-Babylonian Empire: This empire arose after the decline of the Assyrians in the 7th century BCE, particularly under the reign of Nebuchadnezzar II. The Neo-Babylonian Empire is known for its achievements in architecture, astronomy, and the famed Hanging Gardens of Babylon.
These empires played significant roles in shaping the history of Mesopotamia and left lasting legacies in culture, law, and administration.