The story of Sargon
The first Sumerian states were conquered by the Akkadians led by Sargon. This great ruler was once an orphan. In those days the custom of exposure was practiced that is if a child was not wanted by his family for some reason he would be abandoned and left to die. Sargon's mother unable to keep him placed him in a basket and left him in the Euphrates River. The baby was found by a gradener who raised him to be soldier. Sargon grew to manhood and quickly rose to power in the Akkadian army fighting in may wars. When the opportunity came Sargon became the king of Akkad. The area of the Fertile Crescent needed a strong ruler and Sargon established the firs empire in history the Akkadian Empire. The power of priests was broken during Sargon's rule. Sargon was a great lawgiver and never forgot the rights for the people. He puts laws into effect making it easier for poor people to go to courtsif they were mistreated. He also encouraged the merchant class to compete in trade. To insure the free flow of trade he made sure no bands of outlaws or soldiers disturbed commerce. While Sargon ruled his empire it was strong and prospered. His children however were unable to hold what he had won By 2230 B.C. Sargon's house had ceased to rule