Hittites

Definition

The Hittites were an ancient civilization that emerged in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) around the 17th century BCE, known for their powerful empire and significant contributions to the cultural and political landscape of the ancient Near East. They played a crucial role in regional diplomacy and international relations, particularly during the Late Bronze Age, and were instrumental in the cultural assimilation of surrounding peoples, including the Kassites in Mesopotamia.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Hittite Empire reached its peak around the 14th century BCE, becoming a dominant power in the Near East through military conquests and strategic alliances.
2. They developed a complex system of writing, using cuneiform script to record laws, treaties, and literature, which helped preserve their history and culture.
3. The Hittites are known for their innovative use of iron technology, particularly in weapon-making, which gave them a military advantage over rival states.
4. They engaged in significant diplomatic relations with other powers, such as Egypt and Assyria, exemplified by treaties like the one made with Ramses II after the Battle of Kadesh.
5. The fall of the Hittite Empire in the late 12th century BCE is attributed to a combination of internal strife and external pressures from invading groups such as the Sea Peoples.

Review Questions

• How did the Hittites influence cultural assimilation among surrounding peoples during their rule?
  • The Hittites significantly influenced cultural assimilation through their interactions with neighboring cultures, such as the Kassites. By engaging in trade, intermarriage, and political alliances, they facilitated the exchange of ideas, technologies, and practices. This resulted in a blending of cultures that enriched both Hittite society and those they interacted with, demonstrating their role as cultural intermediaries in the region.
• In what ways did Hittite diplomacy shape international relations during the Late Bronze Age?
  • Hittite diplomacy was crucial in shaping international relations during the Late Bronze Age by establishing treaties and alliances with major powers like Egypt. Their strategic approach included negotiations to avoid conflict and foster trade partnerships. The Treaty of Kadesh with Ramses II is a prime example of how Hittite diplomacy set precedents for future interstate agreements and helped maintain stability in the region despite ongoing rivalries.
• Evaluate the reasons behind the decline of the Hittite Empire and its impact on regional politics in the ancient Near East.
  • The decline of the Hittite Empire can be attributed to multiple factors including internal political instability, economic difficulties, and external invasions from groups like the Sea Peoples. As their central authority weakened, this led to fragmentation within their territories, resulting in smaller city-states. The collapse of Hittite power significantly altered regional politics in the ancient Near East, paving the way for emerging powers such as Assyria and contributing to shifts in trade routes and cultural exchanges across the region.

Related terms

Anatolia: A large peninsula in Western Asia, also known as Asia Minor, which was home to various ancient civilizations, including the Hittites.

Kassites: An ancient people who ruled Babylon after the fall of the Old Babylonian Empire, known for their cultural assimilation and interaction with other civilizations like the Hittites.

Hittite Law Code: A legal code that reflects the social and legal practices of the Hittite society, showcasing their advanced legal system and its influence on neighboring cultures.