Was the first empire really started by an abandoned orphan who rose to greatness?

Was there an empire older and more important than mighty Egypt? There were a few, but the Akkadian Empire, born out of the cradle of civilization, is thought to be the first. And it was a game-changer. Its creation inspired conquerors and other empire-builders throughout history and spawned two world powers. Its epics, legends, and beliefs influence religions and cultures even today—and make for some darn good listening.

Known mostly through clay tablets and stelae, the truth about the Akkadian Empire has intrigued and at times eluded scholars and historians. Victory reliefs made grandiose claims, and propaganda was rampant. Legendary poems countered cautionary tales about arrogance and oppression. We will discuss the men who ruled the empire and the legends that define what we know about them.

Some of the treasures you’ll discover about the Akkadian Empire includes: