Part 7/9:
Under kings like Ashurbanipal, the Assyrians became notorious for their extreme methods of warfare and governance. While this strategy of terror initially served to instill fear and secure compliance, it also bred profound resentment. Assyrian brutality, including mass slaughter and public executions, earned them a fearsome reputation that would ultimately undermine their power. Though they conquered vast territories, the policy of relentless warfare and instilling panic created numerous enemies who aimed for vengeance in times of weakness.