Famous Iraqi Historical Personalities

Gilgamesh was a legendary hero in ancient Mesopotamian mythology and a possible historical king of the Sumerian city-state of Uruk. He was posthumously deified and his rule likely occurred during the Early Dynastic Period. Known for his superhuman strength, Gilgamesh embarked on numerous journeys with his companion Enkidu, defeating formidable foes such as Humbaba and the Bull of Heaven. Seeking immortality, he faced trials but ultimately accepted his mortality. The Epic of Gilgamesh, composed during the Middle Babylonian Period, influenced later epic poems and modern culture.

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 established the "Sargonic" or "Old Akkadian" dynasty and is credited with conquering Sumerian city-states. Sargon's empire, ruled from the capital city of Akkad, encompassed Mesopotamia, parts of the Levant, Hurrian, and Elamite territories. He is considered one of the earliest documented rulers to preside over an empire, as noted in the Sumerian King List and Neo-Assyrian literature.

Hammurabi was the sixth Amorite king of the Old Babylonian Empire, reigning from c. 1792 to c. 1750 BC. During his rule, he successfully conquered various city-states, including Larsa, Eshnunna, and Mari, expanding Babylonian influence over Mesopotamia. He established the renowned Code of Hammurabi, one of the earliest legal codes emphasizing physical punishment for crimes and the presumption of innocence. Hammurabi was revered as a godlike figure in his lifetime and posthumously remembered as a great conqueror and an ideal lawgiver.

Ashurbanipal was the king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, known for his lengthy reign and cultural achievements. He inherited the throne as the favored heir of his father and engaged in extensive military campaigns, notably against Elam and his brother Shamash-shum-ukin. Ashurbanipal was a patron of art and literature, establishing the renowned Library of Ashurbanipal, which contained over 100,000 texts. Despite his brutal reputation for gory massacres and destruction, his reign marked the apogee of ancient Assyria but also contributed to its eventual decline.

Nebuchadnezzar II, also known as Nebuchadrezzar the Great, was the second king of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, ruling for 43 years. He is renowned for his military campaigns in the Levant, including defeating the Egyptian army at the Battle of Carchemish. Nebuchadnezzar's reign saw both military successes and failures, with a period of lackluster performance followed by a resurgence in the 580s BC. He is remembered as a great builder king, overseeing significant construction projects in Babylon and other parts of Mesopotamia, transforming the city into a magnificent urban center.

Sennacherib was a prominent king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, known for his military campaigns and ambitious building projects. He faced challenges in controlling Babylonia, particularly from the Chaldean chief Marduk-apla-iddina II. Sennacherib reclaimed Babylon but faced continued resistance. He waged the Levantine War, subduing some states but facing resistance from others, like the Kingdom of Judah. Sennacherib transferred the capital to Nineveh, where he undertook extensive construction projects, including the renowned Southwest Palace. His reign ended tragically with his assassination by his sons, leading to the ascension of Esarhaddon as king.

Nebuchadnezzar I reigned as the fourth king of the Second Dynasty of Isin and Fourth Dynasty of Babylon for 22 years. He was a prominent monarch known for his victory over Elam and the recovery of the cultic idol of Marduk. His professional life was marked by successful military campaigns and strategic achievements that solidified his legacy as a powerful ruler in Mesopotamia. Nebuchadnezzar I's reign was characterized by his leadership in expanding Babylonian influence and securing important religious artifacts.

Al-Ma'mun was the seventh Abbasid caliph, reigning from 813 to 833. He succeeded his half-brother after a civil war, facing challenges such as rebellions and the rise of local strongmen. He focused on pacification campaigns and promoting scholarship through the Translation Movement. Al-Ma'mun supported the Translation Movement, which led to advancements in learning and sciences in Baghdad. He is credited with publishing al-Khwarizmi's book "Algebra" and supporting the doctrine of Mu'tazilism. Additionally, he faced religious persecution and engaged in warfare with the Byzantine Empire.

Khosrow II, also known as Khosrow Parviz, was the last great Sasanian king of Iran. He ruled from 590 to 628 with notable achievements. Khosrow II engaged in wars with the Byzantine Empire, capturing significant territories and earning the title "the Victorious". Despite some military setbacks, he displayed strategic prowess and ambition, emulating the conquests of the Achaemenids. His reign was marked by both military triumphs and internal strife, culminating in his eventual deposition and death at the hands of his son during a coup.

Zedekiah was the final King of Judah before the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar II. He was originally named Mattaniah but was installed as king by Nebuchadnezzar II, who changed his name. Despite having the prophet Jeremiah as his counselor, Zedekiah did not heed 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. He led a successful uprising against the Neo-Assyrian Empire, ultimately bringing about its complete destruction. Nabopolassar strategically pushed the Assyrians out of Babylonia after a decade of fighting, with the help of the Median Empire. His military campaigns included sacking key Assyrian cities and securing borders. Despite challenges from Egypt, Nabopolassar's legacy endured, with Babylonian authors portraying him as a champion avenging his homeland and resisting foreign domination.

Esarhaddon was the king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire from 681 to 669 BC. Known for his conquest of Egypt and reconstruction of Babylon, he faced challenges including a civil war against his brothers. Despite struggles with paranoia and illness, Esarhaddon completed ambitious building projects, campaigned successfully in various regions, defeated empires, enforced treaties, and ensured a peaceful succession of power to his sons. His reign was marked by military victories, territorial expansion, and effective governance, establishing him as a great Assyrian king.

Ur-Nammu was a prominent ruler who founded the Sumerian Third Dynasty of Ur after a period of Akkadian and Gutian rule. He focused on military conquest, leading to the establishment of the Ur III Empire. Notable for his construction of temples and canals, his most enduring legacy is the Code of Ur-Nammu, considered the oldest known legal code. With titles including "King of Ur, and King of Sumer and Akkad," he was dedicated to his personal goddess Ninsuna, leaving a lasting impact on ancient Mesopotamian society.

Naram-Sin was a ruler of the Akkadian Empire, succeeding his grandfather King Sargon of Akkad. During his reign, c. 2254–2218 BC, the empire reached its peak in territorial expansion. He was the first Mesopotamian king to proclaim himself divine, adopting titles such as "God of Akkad" and "King of the Four Quarters." Naram-Sin also became the patron deity of Akkade. His legacy was so significant that later rulers adopted his name, such as Naram-Sin of Eshnunna, Naram-Sin of Assyria, and Naram-Sin of Uruk.

Faisal II of Iraq ascended to the throne at a young age and was placed under a regency. He was sent to the United Kingdom during World War II for safety and education. Upon coming of age, Faisal assumed full powers as the King of Iraq. He faced political challenges, including a coup in 1958 that led to the end of the Hashemite monarchy in Iraq and his subsequent execution. Faisal also briefly led the Hashemite Arab Federation alongside Jordan.

Shalmaneser III was a powerful king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, known for his relentless military campaigns against various nations in Mesopotamia, Syria, and beyond. His reign was marked by numerous victories, with his armies successfully conquering territories up to Lake Van and the Taurus Mountains. He enforced tribute payments from the Neo-Hittites of Carchemish, subdued the kingdoms of Hamath and Aram Damascus, and is credited with the first recorded mentions of the Arabs and Chaldeans in history.

Belshazzar was a key figure in the Neo-Babylonian Empire, serving as the crown prince and regent during his father Nabonidus' absence. He played a significant role in orchestrating a coup that brought his father to power, positioning himself as the primary beneficiary and first-in-line to the throne. Despite lacking the title of king, Belshazzar held many royal responsibilities and privileges, such as commanding portions of the army and overseeing important ceremonies. His fate is presumed to be linked to the fall of Babylon during the Persian invasion in 539 BC.

Ashurnasirpal II was the third king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, reigning from 883 to 859 BCE. He was known for his military campaigns, expanding the empire's territory and establishing dominance over neighboring regions. Ashurnasirpal II was a fierce warrior and a skilled strategist, leading his armies to numerous victories. He undertook massive building projects, constructing grand palaces and temples in the Assyrian heartland. His rule was marked by centralized administration and an emphasis on the power and authority of the Assyrian state.

Nur ad-Din, a member of the Zengid dynasty, ruled the Syrian province of the Seljuk Empire from 1146 to 1174. He is known for his role during the Second Crusade and is considered an important figure of his time. Nur ad-Din's professional life was characterized by his leadership, military prowess, and strategic maneuvers in defending and expanding his territory. He implemented effective governance, promoted Islamic unity, and actively resisted Crusader invasions, leaving a lasting impact on the region's political landscape.

Ahmad Sanjar was a prominent ruler in the Seljuq Empire, serving as the Sultan from 1118 until his death in 1157. He initially ruled Khorasan before ascending to the position of Sultan. During his reign, he oversaw various military campaigns and diplomatic endeavors, consolidating power and expanding the empire's territories. Ahmad Sanjar was known for his strategic leadership and efforts to maintain stability within the empire. His rule was marked by significant achievements in governance, military affairs, and regional influence.

Tiglath-Pileser III was a prominent Neo-Assyrian king known for his significant reforms and military conquests. He ended Assyrian stagnation, expanded the empire's territory, and centralized power through the establishment of a standing army. His reign marked the transition of Assyria into an empire, with lasting effects on later rulers and empires. Tiglath-Pileser's rise to power is debated, with some viewing him as a usurper while others suggest a legitimate inheritance. He achieved victories against Urartu and in the Levant, ultimately conquering Babylonia in 729.

Shalmaneser V ruled the Neo-Assyrian Empire from 727 BC to 722 BC. He is renowned for conquering Samaria and defeating the Kingdom of Israel. His military campaigns extended to territories west of Assyria, targeting Israelites, Phoenician city-states, and Anatolian kingdoms. Despite successfully annexing lands, his reign was marked by prolonged sieges. His deposition and death were likely violent, and his successor Sargon II may not have been his legitimate heir. Shalmaneser V is also known as Ululayu, possibly his birth name used in non-contemporary sources.

Enmerkar was an ancient Sumerian ruler known for his legendary 420-year reign in Uruk. He oversaw the construction of the city and led military campaigns against Aratta. Enmerkar is credited with being the inventor of writing in Sumerian legend, as he was depicted in ancient texts as the one who first inscribed words on clay tablets. His professional life was marked by his leadership in city-building, military strategy, and the significant cultural advancement of introducing writing to the world.

Al-Amin, also known as al-Amīn, was the sixth Arab Abbasid caliph from 809 to 813. He succeeded his father, Harun al-Rashid, in 809. During his rule, Al-Amin faced challenges, including a civil war with his half-brother, al-Ma'mun, which ultimately led to his deposition and death in 813. Despite his short reign, Al-Amin's professional life was marked by political turmoil and power struggles within the Abbasid caliphate, ultimately resulting in his downfall at the hands of his own family member.

Abd al-Ilah of Hejaz served as the regent for King Faisal II of the Hashemite Kingdom of Iraq from 1939 to 1953. He also held the title of Crown Prince of Iraq from 1943 to 1953. Abd al-Ilah played a key role in governing Iraq during this period, overseeing the transition of power until King Faisal II came of age. Tragically, Abd al-Ilah was killed during the 14 July Revolution in 1958, which marked the end of the Hashemite monarchy in Iraq.

Hormizd IV ruled as the Sasanian King of Kings of Iran from 579 to 590. His reign was marked by conflict and political turmoil, including wars with the Byzantine Empire and the Western Turkic Khaganate, as well as internal rebellions. Hormizd IV implemented policies that favored the landed gentry over the aristocracy and Zoroastrian priesthood. His decision to depose and kill Bahram Chobin ultimately led to the Sasanian civil war of 589–591. Despite being viewed as tyrannical in contemporary sources, modern historiography portrays him as a ruler who attempted to continue his father's policies with good intentions.

Lugal-Zage-Si was a powerful Sumerian king who reigned over Umma and briefly united Sumer as a single kingdom. He is known for leading Umma to victory in a long-standing conflict with Lagash for control of the fertile plain of Gu-Edin. Considered the last Sumerian king before the rise of the Akkadian Empire, he was a skilled military leader and strategist. His conquests and ability to unite the region under his rule marked him as a significant figure in ancient Mesopotamian history.

Ahmad ibn Tulun was a Turkic slave-soldier who became a powerful ruler in Egypt and Syria. He established himself as an independent leader by taking control of Egypt's finances and building a loyal military force. Implementing reforms in taxation and irrigation, he significantly increased the tax revenue. Ibn Tulun expanded his rule into Syria and challenged the Abbasid caliphate, passing power to his son. His legacy as a strong and independent ruler paved the way for future Islamic regimes in Egypt.

Al-Muktafi bi-llah served as the Abbasid Caliph from 902 to 908, following his father al-Mu'tadid. He continued his father's policies through his reign, delegating much of the governance to viziers and officials. Under his rule, the Abbasid Caliphate saw victories over the Qarmatians in the Syrian Desert and the reintegration of Egypt and Syrian territories. The ongoing war with the Byzantine Empire saw some successes, notably the Sack of Thessalonica in 904. His 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 continued his grandfather's efforts in restoring the caliphate's dominant role and achieved military success, conquering parts of Iran. Historian Angelika Hartmann considers him the last effective Abbasid caliph. Al-Nasir's professional legacy includes the construction of enduring monuments in Baghdad, such as the Zumurrud Khatun Mosque and Mausoleum, showcasing his dedication to architectural and cultural advancement in the region.

Šamaš-šuma-ukin was king of Babylon under the Neo-Assyrian Empire, ruling as a vassal from 668 BC until his death in 648. Despite being of Assyrian origin, he assimilated well into Babylonian culture. His reign was marked by close monitoring from his younger brother, King Ashurbanipal, leading to resentment and eventual revolt in 652. Šamaš-šuma-ukin recruited allies in a failed attempt to break free from Assyrian control, resulting in the capture of Babylon and his death in 648. After his defeat, a campaign was launched to erase his memory.

Al-Muqtafi li-Amr Allah served as the Abbasid caliph in Baghdad from 1136 to 1160, following his nephew's abdication due to pressure from the Seljuks. During his reign, he capitalized on the disunity among the Seljuk Turks to uphold and expand his authority in Baghdad and across Iraq. Al-Muqtafi's professional life was characterized by his strategic governance, adept diplomatic maneuvers, and skillful management of internal and external challenges to maintain stability and control over his realm.

Tiglath-Pileser II, also known as Tukultī-apil-Ešarra, ruled as the King of Assyria from 967 BCE until his death in 935 BCE. He succeeded his father, Ashur-resh-ishi II, and was later succeeded by his son, Ashur-dan II. Tiglath-Pileser II's reign is shrouded in mystery, with little information available about his professional achievements and activities during his time as king. Despite this lack of detailed records, he played a significant role in the history of Assyria during his rule.

Shalmaneser I was a powerful king of Assyria during the Middle Assyrian Empire. He waged successful military campaigns, conquering numerous territories and incorporating them into the Assyrian provinces. Known for his brutal tactics, he claimed to have blinded thousands of enemy prisoners. He was innovative in his approach to defeated enemies, choosing to deport them to various lands instead of executing them. Shalmaneser I also undertook significant construction projects, including building palaces, restoring temples, and founding the city of Kalhu (Nimrud).

Shammuramat, also known as Semiramis, was a powerful queen of the Neo-Assyrian Empire. Initially the primary consort of King Shamshi-Adad V, she rose to prominence during the reign of her son Adad-nirari III. Despite dispute over her exact status, she was undeniably influential, being the only Assyrian queen to retain her title after her husband's death and possibly leading military campaigns. Shammuramat played a significant role in expanding the empire's borders, receiving dedications from local governors and leaving a lasting legacy as a renowned figure of her time.

Adad-nārārī I was a successful king of Assyria during the Middle Assyrian Empire, known for his military achievements that strengthened the kingdom. He is the earliest Assyrian king with detailed surviving annals, showcasing his prowess in warfare. Adad-nārārī I referred to himself as "Adad (is) my helper" in inscriptions, highlighting his reliance on divine assistance. His victories and strategic leadership further solidified Assyria's power and influence in the region, leaving a lasting legacy of military prowess and expansion.

Abu Kalijar Marzuban was a prominent figure in Persian history, serving as the Buyid amir of Fars, Kerman, and Iraq during the 11th century. He successfully ruled over these regions, showcasing his leadership skills and political acumen. Abu Kalijar Marzuban's reign was marked by stability and prosperity, as he effectively managed the affairs of his territories. His strategic governance and diplomatic prowess solidified his position as a respected ruler in the region, leaving a lasting impact on the political landscape of his time.