Hittite Empire

Definition

The Hittite Empire was an ancient civilization that flourished in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) from around the 17th to the 11th centuries BCE. Known for its advanced political structures and military power, the Hittites played a key role in the dynamics of the Late Bronze Age, interacting with neighboring cultures such as the Egyptians, Mycenaeans, and Assyrians. Their eventual decline and disappearance mark significant events in the collapse of Bronze Age civilizations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Hittite Empire was known for its military innovation, utilizing chariots and iron weapons to expand its territory and influence.
2. The Hittites established a sophisticated bureaucracy and legal system, which included one of the earliest known law codes in history.
3. The empire reached its peak under King Suppiluliuma I, who expanded its borders significantly through conquest and diplomacy.
4. The Hittites were also notable for their advancements in metallurgy, particularly in ironworking, which contributed to their military strength.
5. The collapse of the Hittite Empire around 1200 BCE is attributed to a combination of invasions, internal strife, and economic difficulties that affected many Bronze Age civilizations.

Review Questions

• How did the military strategies of the Hittite Empire contribute to its expansion during the Late Bronze Age?
  • The Hittite Empire employed advanced military strategies that included the use of chariots and iron weaponry. These innovations provided them with a significant advantage over neighboring states and allowed for effective expansion into territories such as northern Syria. Their military might was demonstrated in key battles, like Kadesh against Egypt, showcasing their tactical prowess and ability to dominate rivals.
• Discuss the role of the Hittite legal code in shaping their society and governance compared to other contemporary civilizations.
  • The Hittite legal code played a crucial role in establishing social order and governance within the empire. Unlike many contemporary societies that relied heavily on royal decrees, the Hittite laws were codified and accessible, which helped maintain justice across diverse populations. This emphasis on law provided a framework for dealing with disputes and crimes, reflecting a more organized approach to governance that set them apart from other civilizations of their time.
• Evaluate the factors that led to the collapse of the Hittite Empire and how this event relates to the broader phenomenon of Bronze Age civilization declines.
  • The collapse of the Hittite Empire around 1200 BCE was influenced by multiple factors including external invasions, such as those from the Sea Peoples, internal political instability, and economic troubles exacerbated by famine. This decline was not isolated; it mirrored a widespread collapse of several Bronze Age civilizations across the Eastern Mediterranean. The interconnectedness of these cultures meant that when one fell due to external pressures or internal weaknesses, it often triggered a domino effect impacting trade routes, alliances, and societal structures across regions.

Related terms

Anatolia: A region in Western Asia that encompasses most of modern-day Turkey and was home to several ancient civilizations, including the Hittites.

Hittite Law Code: A set of laws established by the Hittite kings that governed various aspects of society, emphasizing justice and order.

Kadesh: An ancient city in modern-day Syria where one of the most famous battles between the Hittites and Egyptians took place, leading to a significant peace treaty.