HITTITE EMPIRE Meaning and
Definition
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The Hittite Empire refers to a powerful ancient empire that existed during the Late Bronze Age, between the 18th and 12th centuries BCE. It was located in present-day central Anatolia, which is modern-day Turkey. The empire was established by a people known as the Hittites, who were an Indo-European-speaking civilization.
The Hittite Empire was a major political and military force during its time, exerting influence over a vast region of the ancient Near East. At its peak, the empire spanned from northern Syria to the southern parts of modern-day Turkey, including parts of Lebanon and Israel. The capital city of the empire was Hattusa.
The empire was characterized by its advanced administration, military strength, and cultural achievements. The Hittites were renowned for their knowledge and application of ironworking, which gave them a significant advantage in warfare. They were also skilled diplomats and held peaceful relationships with neighboring kingdoms through the use of treaties and alliances.
Religiously, the Hittite Empire was polytheistic, worshipping numerous gods and goddesses. The Hittites left behind an extensive cuneiform archive of clay tablets that provide valuable insights into their culture, history, religious beliefs, and legal system.
The decline of the Hittite Empire began in the 13th century BCE due to various factors, including internal struggles, external invasions, and the mysterious Sea Peoples. By the 12th century BCE, the empire disintegrated and gradually disappeared from historical records, leaving an impact on subsequent civilizations through its cultural and political legacy.
Etymology of HITTITE EMPIRE
The word "Hittite" comes from the name of an ancient Anatolian people known as the Hatti. The Hatti inhabited central Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) during the Late Bronze Age and were the indigenous population of the region. The term "Hittite" was later used by ancient Mesopotamians to refer to the Hatti people.
The Hittite Empire, also known as the Hittite Kingdom, refers to the political entity established by the Hittite people during the Late Bronze Age. This empire emerged around the 17th century BCE and reached its height in the 14th century BCE. The name "Hittite Empire" is simply a descriptive term used by historians and scholars to refer to this ancient state, based on the name of its ruling people, the Hittites.
