Question

What strategies did Sargon use to conquer the independent city-states of Sumer?

A) Diplomacy and trade agreements
B) Open warfare and territorial conquest
C) Religious alliances and cultural exchanges
D) Sanctions and economic embargoes

Answer 1

Sargon of Akkad conquered the Sumerian city-states primarily through open warfare and territorial conquest, supported by the world's first standing army.

Step-by-step explanation:

Strategies of Sargon's Conquests

Sargon of Akkad, also known as Sargon the Great, utilized open warfare and territorial conquest to assert control over the independent city-states of Sumer. One of his significant achievements was the establishment of the world's first standing army, which allowed him to maintain a group of soldiers permanently employed by the state.

This military force was instrumental in his efforts to unite the regions of Akkad and Sumer under one empire around 2340 BCE. Additionally, Sargon implemented an empire-wide system that extracted wealth from conquered cities and directed it back to the capital of Akkad. This combination of military might and economic control helped Sargon maintain his empire for a century, ensuring its profound impact on the political structure of Mesopotamia.