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Sargon of Akkad — Reading Comprehension

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This engaging history reading passage explores the life and legacy of Sargon of Akkad, the founder of the world's first known empire in ancient Mesopotamia. Students will learn how Sargon rose from humble origins to unite the city-states of Sumer through military conquest and innovative government, establishing the Akkadian Empire around 2334 BCE. The passage integrates key vocabulary such as 'city-state,' 'conquest,' and 'cuneiform,' and examines the historical context, primary sources, and the impact of Sargon's reign on later civilizations. Activities include comprehension questions, a writing task, graphic organizers, timeline, and a glossary to support close reading and historical analysis. The lesson is aligned with CA HSS 6.2.2 and CCSS RI.6.1, and provides read aloud audio and Spanish translation for accessibility.

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"Hoofd van Sargon van Akkad Twee zichten, GD006689" by Unknown authorUnknown author / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

Sargon of Akkad is recognized as one of history’s most influential rulers because he founded the world’s first known empire in ancient Mesopotamia. Around 2334 BCE, Sargon rose to power in the northern Mesopotamian city-state of Akkad and began a campaign that dramatically changed the political landscape of the region.

Before Sargon, Mesopotamia was divided into many independent city-states such as Uruk, Ur, and Lagash. These city-states often competed for resources and land, and were ruled by their own kings. Sargon, originally a cupbearer to the king of Kish, overthrew his master and began conquering neighboring territories. He used a strong, disciplined military and new tactics, such as maintaining a standing army and appointing loyal officials to govern conquered cities. Archaeological discoveries, like royal inscriptions and the famous 'Sargon Legend' tablet, provide evidence of his military campaigns and administration. According to one inscription, Sargon claimed to have ruled from the 'Upper Sea to the Lower Sea,' referring to the Mediterranean and the Persian Gulf.

Under Sargon’s leadership, the Akkadian Empire expanded rapidly. He united Sumerian and Akkadian speakers, creating a single political entity that spanned much of present-day Iraq and parts of Syria. His administration relied on the use of cuneiform writing to record laws, taxes, and official decrees. Sargon established a central government, installed his own family members as governors, and encouraged trade across his empire. The empire’s capital, Akkad, became a center for culture and commerce, though its exact location remains unknown to archaeologists today. The Akkadian language also replaced Sumerian as the region’s common language for administration and literature.

The impact of Sargon’s empire was significant. He created a model for future rulers—such as Hammurabi of Babylon—on how to organize and control a vast territory. Despite facing rebellions and geographic challenges like the unpredictable Euphrates River, Sargon’s system of governance endured for over a century after his death. The Akkadian Empire eventually fell around 2154 BCE due to internal strife and invasions by the Gutians, but its legacy shaped Mesopotamian civilization for centuries. Sargon’s success demonstrated the power of unification, innovation, and strong leadership in shaping history.

Sargon’s rise and the Akkadian Empire connect to broader themes of world history, such as the development of early states, the importance of administration, and the lasting influence of Mesopotamian culture on later societies.

Interesting Fact: Sargon’s birth story became legendary—he was said to have been set afloat in a basket on a river as a baby, a tale similar to that of Moses in later traditions.

Who was Sargon of Akkad?

Founder of the Akkadian EmpireKing of EgyptBabylonian farmerGreek philosopher

Which city was Sargon’s capital?

AkkadUrBabylonNineveh

When did Sargon rise to power?

c. 2334 BCE1200 BCE300 BCE500 CE

Why was Sargon’s military effective?

Used a standing armyBuilt pyramidsOnly traded goodsInvented the wheel

How did Sargon control conquered cities?

Appointed loyal officialsDestroyed all citiesIgnored themGave them independence

What happened after Sargon’s death?

His descendants ruledEmpire was forgottenEgypt took overSumerians ruled