The Four Failures of Tiglath-Pileser III

Oldest Stories

In this episode of Oldest Stories, we explore the later reign of Tiglath-Pileser III, one of the most transformative kings of the Neo-Assyrian Empire. By the late 8th century BCE, Assyria’s power seemed unstoppable, yet beneath the victories lay structural weaknesses.

We examine four key failures that reveal how the empire actually worked:

The eastern provincial revolts of 737 BCE, exposing the limits of Assyria’s new provincial system.

The failed Assyrian siege of Tushpa, capital of Urartu, and what it taught about siege warfare and logistics.

The Babylonian crisis of the 730s, where Chaldeans, Arameans, and internal rebellions undermined Assyria’s southern policy.

The succession struggle following Tiglath-Pileser’s death, setting the stage for Shalmaneser V and the rise of Sargon II.

Along the way we look at Assyrian reforms, deportation policies, eunuch officials, Assyrian-Babylonian relations, and Urartian resistance. We also discuss how propaganda, letters, and oracles shaped royal decisions, and why even the greatest reforming king of Assyria faced real limits to his power.

If you are interested in Ancient Mesopotamia, Assyrian history, Babylon, Urartu, Neo-Assyrian military reforms, biblical history, or the geopolitics of the ancient Near East, this episode will give you an in-depth, historically grounded perspective.

I am also doing daily history facts again, at least until I run out of time again. You can find Oldest Stories daily on Tiktok and Youtube Shorts.

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