Famous Iraqi Emperors & Kings

Sargon of Akkad, also known as Sargon the Great, was the first ruler of the Akkadian Empire in the 24th to 23rd centuries BC. He founded the "Sargonic" or "Old Akkadian" dynasty, which lasted about a century. Sargon is recognized for his conquests of the Sumerian city-states and is sometimes considered the first historical figure to rule over an empire. His empire, centered around the capital city of Akkad, likely encompassed most of Mesopotamia and parts of neighboring territories. Sargon's legacy endured through Neo-Assyrian literature, where he is depicted as a legendary figure.

Gilgamesh was a legendary hero in ancient Mesopotamian mythology, believed to be a historical king of Uruk. He was posthumously deified and his rule is thought to have occurred during the Early Dynastic Period. Gilgamesh's legendary exploits are narrated in surviving Sumerian poems, where he is depicted as a demigod of superhuman strength. He is famous for befriending Enkidu and embarking on journeys, including defeating Humbaba and the Bull of Heaven. Seeking immortality, he faces trials and ultimately realizes its unattainability before returning to Uruk.

Hammurabi, the sixth Amorite king of the Old Babylonian Empire, reigned from around 1792 to 1750 BC. During his rule, he expanded Babylonian territory by conquering various city-states, including Larsa, Eshnunna, and Mari. Hammurabi is best known for creating the Code of Hammurabi, a comprehensive legal code that emphasized physical punishment for crimes and established the presumption of innocence. He was revered as a god during his lifetime and posthumously remembered as a great conqueror and a model lawgiver.

Ashurbanipal was the king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, remembered as the last great Assyrian king. His 38-year reign was marked by military campaigns across the ancient Near East, with victories over Elam and his rebellious brother Shamash-shum-ukin. Known for his brutal tactics, he also focused on cultural endeavors, establishing the renowned Library of Ashurbanipal with over 100,000 texts. Despite military successes, his reign saw challenges in maintaining control over conquered territories, ultimately contributing to the decline of the Assyrian Empire after his death.

Sennacherib was a prominent king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire known for his military campaigns in the Levant, including the destruction of Babylon. Despite facing challenges in controlling Babylonia, he expanded and renovated Nineveh, making it the empire's capital. Sennacherib's ambitious building projects, such as the Southwest Palace, showcased his dedication to creating a grand city. His reign also saw conflicts with rebellious vassals and strategic decisions regarding his heir, leading to his assassination by his sons and the subsequent ascension of Esarhaddon to the throne.

Nebuchadnezzar II was the second king of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, ruling for 43 years. Known as Nebuchadnezzar the Great, he was a renowned military leader, famous for his campaigns in the Levant and his victory over the Assyrian Empire. Despite initial setbacks, he later achieved success in military actions, including the destruction of Jerusalem and the Babylonian captivity. Nebuchadnezzar was also a significant builder, overseeing various construction projects in Babylon and Mesopotamia, solidifying his legacy as both a warrior and a builder king.

Al-Ma'mun, the seventh Abbasid caliph, reigned from 813 to 833. He succeeded his half-brother al-Amin after a civil war, focusing on pacification campaigns to restore order amid rebellions. With a strong interest in scholarship, he promoted the Translation Movement in Baghdad, advancing learning and the sciences. Notably, he supported the doctrine of Mu'tazilism, published al-Khwarizmi's "Algebra," and imprisoned Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, sparking religious persecution. Additionally, he engaged in large-scale warfare with the Byzantine Empire during his reign.

Khosrow II, also known as Khosrow Parviz, was the last great Sasanian king of Iran, ruling from 590 to 628. He engaged in wars with the Byzantine Empire, capturing significant territories and earning the epithet "the Victorious." Despite initial successes, his reign faced challenges from usurpers and internal strife. Khosrow II's professional life was marked by military conquests, alliances with foreign powers, and a tragic end resulting from a coup orchestrated by his son. He is celebrated in Persian literature as a heroic figure and a lover, particularly in tales like Khosrow and Shirin.

Nebuchadnezzar I reigned as the fourth king of the Second Dynasty of Isin and Fourth Dynasty of Babylon, ruling for 22 years. He is renowned for his victory over Elam and the successful recovery of the cultic idol of Marduk. Nebuchadnezzar I's professional life was marked by his leadership during a significant period in Babylonian history, where he established himself as the most prominent monarch of his dynasty. His achievements in warfare and religious restoration solidified his legacy as a powerful and revered ruler.

Zedekiah was the final King of Judah before the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar II. He was originally named Mattanyahu and became king after Nebuchadnezzar II deposed Jeconiah. Despite having the prophet Jeremiah as his counselor, Zedekiah did not follow his advice and was known for doing evil in the sight of the Lord. His reign began around 598 BC and ended with the siege and fall of Jerusalem in 587 or 586 BC.

Nabopolassar was the founder and first king of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, ruling from 626 BC to 605 BC. Rising against the Neo-Assyrian Empire, he led Babylonia to independence after years of fighting. With the support of the Median Empire, he decisively pushed the Assyrians out of Babylonia and led campaigns to secure the border. Nabopolassar's military prowess was evident in the brutal sackings of Assyrian cities, including Nineveh. His legacy as a champion ordered by Marduk endured, symbolizing resistance against foreign domination over Babylon.

Esarhaddon rose to power through a turbulent period of familial conflict, becoming king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire. Despite facing challenges such as paranoia and mistrust, he proved to be a successful ruler, known for his conquests, reconstruction projects, and diplomatic achievements. Esarhaddon expanded the empire through military campaigns across various regions, including Egypt, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Levant. He established vassal treaties and ensured a smooth succession of power to his sons, leaving a legacy as one of the greatest Assyrian kings.

Naram-Sin was a ruler of the Akkadian Empire who reigned during the 23rd century BC. He expanded the empire to its greatest extent and was the first Mesopotamian king to claim divinity for himself, earning titles like "God of Akkad" and "King of the Four Quarters." He became the patron city god of Akkade and his legacy led to later rulers taking on his name. Naram-Sin's professional life was marked by his military conquests, divine claims, and significant influence on subsequent rulers.

Ur-Nammu was a prominent ruler who founded the Sumerian Third Dynasty of Ur in ancient Mesopotamia. He established his empire through military conquests and is best known for creating the Code of Ur-Nammu, the world's oldest surviving legal code. He was a prolific builder of temples and canals, contributing significantly to the infrastructure of his kingdom. With titles such as "King of Ur" and "King of Sumer and Akkad," Ur-Nammu was a revered figure in the region, dedicated to expanding and solidifying his realm.

Faisal II of Iraq ascended the throne at a young age and faced political turmoil throughout his reign. He experienced a regency under his uncle, survived a pro-Axis coup, and was evacuated during World War II. Faisal attended school in the UK and returned to rule independently in 1953. He later headed the Hashemite Arab Federation but faced opposition, leading to his overthrow and execution during the 14 July Revolution in 1958, marking the end of the Hashemite monarchy in Iraq.

Belshazzar was a key figure in the overthrow of King Labashi-Marduk, leading to his father Nabonidus becoming the ruler of the Neo-Babylonian Empire. Belshazzar's strategic role in this coup established him as the heir apparent and regent during his father's decade-long absence from Babylon. Despite wielding significant power as regent, he never officially ascended to the throne. Belshazzar was entrusted with royal responsibilities but lacked certain kingly prerogatives, ultimately meeting an uncertain fate, likely perishing during Cyrus the Great's invasion of Babylonia.

Ashurnasirpal II was the third king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, reigning from 883 to 859 BCE. He embarked on extensive military campaigns, expanding the empire's territory and establishing dominance over neighboring regions. Known for his ruthless conquests, he employed brutal tactics to instill fear in his enemies. Ashurnasirpal II also focused on architectural projects, constructing grand palaces and temples to showcase Assyrian power and wealth. His reign marked a period of significant territorial expansion and cultural advancement for the empire.

Shalmaneser III was a powerful king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire known for his relentless military campaigns against various nations in the region. He led his armies to conquer territories as far as Lake Van and the Taurus Mountains, subduing kingdoms like Hamath and Aram Damascus. His annals from the 850s BC mark the first appearance of Arabs and Chaldeans in recorded history. Shalmaneser III's professional life was characterized by his strategic military prowess and expansionist policies in the ancient Near East.

Nur ad-Din, a Turkoman ruler of the Zengid dynasty, governed the Syrian province of the Seljuk Empire from 1146 to 1174. He played a significant role during the Second Crusade and is recognized as a crucial figure of that period. Known as the 'Light of the Faith' in Arabic, Nur ad-Din's professional life was characterized by his effective leadership, strategic prowess, and his efforts to unite and fortify the Muslim territories against the Crusader invasions, leaving a lasting impact on the region's history.

Tiglath-Pileser III was a prominent and historically significant king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire. He ended a period of Assyrian stagnation through political and military reforms, doubling the lands under Assyrian control. His reign marked the transition of Assyria into an empire, with massive expansion and centralization of territory. Tiglath-Pileser's reforms laid the groundwork for future policies of later Assyrian kings and other empires. He increased royal power by curbing influential officials, achieved significant victories in battle, and conquered territories in the Levant and Babylonia.

Shalmaneser V was the king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, reigning from 727 BC to 722 BC. He is known for conquering Samaria and the Kingdom of Israel, as well as warring against Phoenician city-states and Anatolian kingdoms. His campaigns resulted in the annexation of some lands to the Assyrian Empire but also involved prolonged sieges. The circumstances of his deposition and death are unclear, possibly violent. Sargon II may not have been his legitimate heir, suggesting Shalmaneser V was the final king of the Adaside dynasty.

Ahmad Sanjar was a prominent figure in the Seljuq Empire, initially ruling over Khorasan before ascending to become the Sultan of the entire empire. He was known for his leadership and governance skills, successfully managing the affairs of the empire for several decades. Ahmad Sanjar's reign saw stability and prosperity in the region, with his rule being marked by military achievements and cultural developments. He was a respected ruler who left a lasting impact on the history of the Seljuq Empire.

Abd al-Ilah of Hejaz served as regent for King Faisal II of Iraq from 1939 to 1953. He also held the title of Crown Prince of Iraq from 1943 to 1953. Abd al-Ilah was a key figure in the Iraqi royal family, playing a significant role in the governance and leadership of the Hashemite Kingdom of Iraq. Tragically, he was killed during the 14 July Revolution in 1958, marking the end of the Hashemite monarchy in Iraq.

Enmerkar was an ancient Sumerian ruler known for his legendary reign of 420 years and credited with the construction of the city of Uruk. He led military campaigns against the land of Aratta and is revered as the inventor of writing in Sumerian legend. Enmerkar's innovative contribution to civilization was the inscription of words on clay tablets, marking a pivotal moment in human history as the earliest known story of the invention of writing. His professional life was characterized by leadership, conquest, and pioneering advancements in communication.

Lugal-Zage-Si was a prominent king of Umma who achieved a significant victory over Lagash in a prolonged conflict for the fertile plain of Gu-Edin. He is known for briefly uniting Sumer as a single kingdom following this success. Considered the last Sumerian king before the rise of the Akkadian Empire, he is recognized as the sole ruler of the third dynasty of Uruk according to the Sumerian King List. His leadership and military prowess played a crucial role in shaping the history of ancient Mesopotamia.

Hormizd IV ruled as the Sasanian King of Kings of Iran from 579 to 590. He engaged in warfare against the Byzantine Empire in the west and successfully contained the Western Turkic Khaganate in the east. Hormizd IV incorporated Iberia into the Sasanian Empire and dealt with internal rebellions, including the Sasanian civil war. He was known for his religious tolerance, rejecting calls for persecution of Christians. While some viewed him as tyrannical, modern historiography sees him as a ruler dedicated to continuing his father's policies with ambition.

Ahmad ibn Tulun was a Turkic slave-soldier who became an influential ruler in Egypt and Syria. He established himself as an independent governor by taking control of finances and building a loyal military force. Implementing reforms and efficient administration, he significantly increased tax revenue. He expanded his influence to Syria and the Byzantine frontier. Despite facing challenges and conflicts, he successfully passed power to his son, setting a precedent for future independent rulers in the region.

Al-Muktafi bi-llah served as the caliph of the Abbasid Caliphate from 902 to 908. He followed a more liberal approach compared to his father, focusing on governance and leaving much of the administration to his viziers and officials. His reign witnessed victories over the Qarmatians and the reincorporation of Egypt and parts of Syria. The ongoing war with the Byzantine Empire saw mixed results, including a significant Arab triumph in the Sack of Thessalonica in 904. Al-Muktafi's death in 908 marked the beginning of the Abbasid Caliphate's decline.

Al-Nasir li-Din Allah, also known as Al-Nasir, served as the Abbasid caliph in Baghdad from 1180 until his passing. He strived to restore the caliphate to its former prominence, following in the footsteps of his grandfather al-Muqtafi. Al-Nasir achieved notable success, expanding his territories to Iran through military conquests. Historian Angelika Hartmann regards him as the last effective Abbasid caliph. In addition to his military accomplishments, Al-Nasir left a lasting legacy through the construction of significant monuments in Baghdad like the Zumurrud Khatun Mosque and Mausoleum.

Šamaš-šuma-ukin, king of Babylon under the Neo-Assyrian Empire, ascended to the throne as a vassal, maintaining peaceful relations with his brother Ashurbanipal initially. Despite being ethnically Assyrian, he assimilated well into Babylonian culture and traditions. His reign saw him participating in Babylonian festivals and returning the Statue of Marduk to Babylon. However, resentment grew due to Ashurbanipal's control, leading to Šamaš-šuma-ukin's failed revolt in 652. He ultimately met his demise when Babylon was captured by Ashurbanipal in 648.

Tiglath-Pileser II was King of Assyria from 967 BCE, succeeding his father Ashur-resh-ishi II until his death in 935 BCE. During his reign, he expanded the Assyrian Empire through military campaigns, consolidating power and establishing control over various regions. Tiglath-Pileser II implemented administrative reforms, improved infrastructure, and increased trade, contributing to the prosperity of Assyria. His leadership was marked by military prowess, strategic diplomacy, and a focus on expanding and strengthening the Assyrian state.

Al-Muqtafi li-Amr Allah served as the Abbasid caliph in Baghdad from 1136 to 1160. He succeeded his nephew al-Rashid after the latter was forced to abdicate by the Seljuks. During his reign, he took advantage of the disunion among the Seljuk Turks to maintain and expand his authority in Baghdad and throughout Iraq. Al-Muqtafi's professional life was characterized by his successful navigation of political challenges and his strategic handling of power dynamics in the region.

Shalmaneser I, a king of Assyria during the Middle Assyrian Empire, was a skilled military leader and conqueror. He expanded the Assyrian kingdom by defeating enemies and incorporating new territories into his empire. Known for his brutal tactics, he famously blinded thousands of enemy prisoners. In addition to his military achievements, Shalmaneser I also focused on building and restoring important structures such as palaces and temples in cities like Assur and Nineveh. His reign marked a period of territorial expansion and architectural development in Assyria.

Adad-nārārī I was a powerful king of Assyria during the Middle Assyrian Empire. Known for his military prowess, he achieved significant victories that solidified Assyria's strength. His inscriptions indicate a proud lineage, tracing his heritage back to Arik-den-ili. Despite some discrepancies in the historical records, his reign marked a period of expansion and success for the Assyrian empire. Adad-nārārī I's legacy is defined by his strategic leadership and accomplishments on the battlefield, securing his place as a revered ruler in Assyrian history.

Abu Kalijar Marzuban served as the Buyid amir of Fars, Kerman, and Iraq during the early 11th century. He succeeded his father, Sultan al-Dawla, and held significant political power in the region. Abu Kalijar's rule was marked by his efforts to maintain stability and control over the territories under his authority. He faced various challenges during his reign but managed to navigate through them with strategic decision-making and military prowess. Abu Kalijar's leadership left a lasting impact on the Buyid dynasty and the regions he governed.