16. What were some of the innovations in warfare begun by the Assyrians?

Return to *History 8 Mesopotamia Notes

Innovations in Warfare begun by the Assyrians The Assyrians were a culture that existed many thousands of years ago, inhabiting an area known today as Mesopotamia. This group of people is well-known for its advancement in warfare tools and techniques.

Siege Engines

The siege engine was an invention built by the Assyrians and used to get past the walls of huge cities. The siege engines were covered in sheet metal and wet leather to keep flaming projectiles from lighting the engines. Attached to the front of the vehicle was a huge ram used to repeatedly smash the gates or walls of a city.

Iron and Metal

Iron, instead of bronze, was used in many weapons, including lances (tips), daggers, swords, and arrows. Shields were most commonly made of leather, bronze, and iron, or a combination of the three. Breastplates, while used by the army, were usually bronze.

Chariot and Horse Power

The wheel, invented in Mesopotamia, was first used to make pottery and then turned on its side to create the cart, and later the chariot. The chariot was, surprisingly, invented before the calvary. Horsemen were an idea of the Assyrians, but were not used often.

Resources: Assyria Video (Notes), [1], Manual page 79

Cameryn Burnette