23. Why and how did the Neo-Babylonian empire end?

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Neo-Babylon was the final empire in the Mesopotamian culture, also known as the Chaldean Dynasty. After the death of the last Assyrian king, the once defeated Babylonian people began to reform their ideal culture and were lead by Nabopolassar. Shortly there after, Nabopolassar's son replaced him, and Nebuchadnezzar was now the reigning ruler of the Babylonians. Although Nebuchadnezzar was a mighty king who had grown his empire into a well sought-after kingdom, difficulties brewed within. As it states in the manual, multiple cities within Babylon were loyal to Assyria, and control became an issue when the Babylonian Empire was placed in the hands of Nabonidus. When Nabonidus placed the god of Sin over their primary god, the Babylonians became infuriated. After this dramatic event happened, priest and fellow Babylonians allowed Cyrus the Conqueror of Persia to bring Mesopotamian culture to an end. Cyrus shifted the power of Babylon to his capital, and thus concluded the Neo-Babylonian culture.

Picture Source: http://elseplace.blogspot.com/2008/08/ancient-babylon-metaphor-for-dark-side_30.html

Sources: Manual Pg. 101-102 http://www.britannica.com/place/Neo-Babylonian-Empire http://edhelper.com/ReadingComprehension_42_176.html