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= Decline and Fall = (2)
Age of Empires IV

= Decline and Fall = (2)

Learn about the fall of the Chaldean Dynasty in Age of Empires IV, including Nabonidus's reign and Cyrus I's conquest in 539 B.C.

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Learn about the fall of the Chaldean Dynasty in Age of Empires IV, including Nabonidus's reign and Cyrus I's conquest in 539 B.C.

Walkthrough
  1. 1
    In 556 B.C., Nabonidus, the last king of the Chaldean Dynasty, ascended to the throne of Babylon after seven turbulent years marked by three successive kings and two rebellions.
  2. 2
    Nabonidus worshipped the moon god Sin but neglected local affairs and key religious rituals for other deities, notably failing to perform the New Year festival in honor of Marduk, the patron deity of Babylon, for several years.
  3. 3
    He also implemented reforms that centralized control of temple finances under his authority, further increasing dissatisfaction.
  4. 4
    Meanwhile, a new power, Persia, led by Cyrus I, was expanding eastward, having overthrown the Medes and conquered Anatolia with a reputation for tolerance and clemency.
  5. 5
    When Cyrus I turned his attention to the Babylonians, he was met with support from a significant portion of the population, including influential priests.
  6. 6
    Cyrus I first defeated Nabonidus in battle at Opis.
  7. 7
    Nabonidus retreated to Babylon, but the city surrendered without resistance on October 12, 539 B.C.
  8. 8
    Nabonidus was taken captive, and the Jews and other peoples held in Babylonian captivity were released.
  9. 9
    The Neo-Babylonian Empire was absorbed into the Persian Empire, ending Babylonia as a distinct entity and culture.
Tips
  • Nabonidus's neglect of Babylonian religious traditions and his financial reforms were key factors contributing to his downfall.
  • Cyrus I's policy of tolerance and clemency played a significant role in his successful and relatively peaceful conquest of Babylon.
  • The surrender of Babylon on October 12, 539 B.C., marked the end of Babylonian independence.

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