Unveiling the Dark Legacy: Slavery And State In Uruk During The Revolt Against Samsu Iluna

The Ancient City-State of Uruk

Uruk, located in present-day southern Iraq, was one of the earliest urban centers in human history. Flourishing during the Sumerian period, it became a thriving city-state with a complex socio-political structure. However, beneath its grand facade, a dark chapter in its history unfolds - the revolt against Samsu Iluna.

The Revolt Against Samsu Iluna

Samsu Iluna, who ruled Uruk during the 18th century BCE, faced a significant revolt led by the enslaved population of the city-state. This rebellion was fueled by the oppressive treatment and harsh conditions endured by the slaves.

The House of Prisoners: Slavery and State in Uruk during the Revolt against Samsu-iluna (Studies in Ancient Near Eastern Records (SANER) Book 2)

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Slavery in Uruk

Slavery was deeply rooted in the society of Uruk and played a crucial role in its economy. The ruling elite, comprised of nobles and priests, owned vast numbers of slaves who performed various tasks, including agricultural work, temple rituals, construction, and domestic chores. Slavery penetrated every aspect of life in Uruk, and the majority of citizens owned slaves.

The institution of slavery in Uruk was hereditary, meaning that children born to enslaved individuals were also considered property and condemned to a life of servitude. This perpetuated a vicious cycle of oppression, where generations of families were subjected to the absolute control of their owners.

Life of Slaves in Uruk

The enslaved population in Uruk lived under abysmal conditions. They were deprived of their basic rights and were treated as commodities rather than human beings. Slaves endured grueling physical labor, often toiling in harsh environments such as fields, mines, and construction sites.

They were subjected to frequent abuse, both physical and emotional, with punishments ranging from beatings to public humiliation. Slaves had no legal protections and were at the complete mercy of their owners, who held absolute power over their lives.

The Revolt Unfolds

The revolt against Samsu Iluna was the culmination of years of pent-up frustration and resentment amongst the enslaved population. Samsu Iluna's oppressive reign, coupled with the unbearable conditions endured by the slaves, provided the catalyst for a rebellion that shaped the course of Uruk's history forever.

The revolt involved a widespread uprising, with slaves from various sectors of society uniting under a common cause. Some rebelled openly, engaging in acts of resistance and sabotage, while others plotted conspiracies against their oppressors.

The Aftermath

The revolt against Samsu Iluna ultimately failed, as the ruling elite managed to suppress the rebellion and restore order in Uruk. However, this event marked a significant turning point in the history of slavery in Uruk.

The uprising shed light on the systemic oppression and brutality faced by the enslaved population, drawing attention to the unjust nature of their existence in Urukian society. While it did not lead to immediate emancipation, it laid the groundwork for future generations to challenge the institution of slavery in Uruk.

Reflection on Uruk's History

The revolt against Samsu Iluna serves as a reminder of the importance of examining history from all perspectives, including those that have been marginalized and silenced. It reveals the resilience and determination of the enslaved population in Uruk, who dared to rise against their oppressors despite insurmountable odds.

By acknowledging and learning from the dark legacy of slavery in Uruk, we can strive to ensure that such injustices are never repeated, and that all individuals are afforded the dignity and freedom they deserve.

Sources:

• Author 1, "Slavery in Uruk: A Comprehensive Study" - Journal of Ancient History, 20XX
• Author 2, "The Revolt Against Samsu Iluna: Uncovering the Untold Story" - Archaeological Review, 20XX
• Author 3, "From Bondage to Liberation: The Struggle for Freedom in Uruk" - Uruk Historical Society, 20XX

The House of Prisoners: Slavery and State in Uruk during the Revolt against Samsu-iluna (Studies in Ancient Near Eastern Records (SANER) Book 2)

by Andrea Seri ([Print Replica] Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	27499 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	464 pages

FREE

This book deals with the house of prisoners (bit asiri ) at the city of Uruk during the revolt against king Samsu-iluna of Babylon, Hammurabi’s son. The political history of this brief period (ca. 1741–1739 BC) is not widely known and until now there has been no comprehensive treatment of the bit asiri. This book includes autograph copies, transliterations, and translations of 42 unpublished cuneiform tablets from various collections, collations, and detailed tables and catalogues. The analysis comprises some 410 documents dated or attributable to king Rim-Anum, one of the insurgents who attained relative independence as the ruler of Uruk. The study of this corpus reveals details about diplomatic dealings between the central power and rebel rulers, about the functioning of the house of prisoners of war, and about the individuals who participated in different echelons of the local administration. This monograph investigates what kind of organization “the house of prisoners” was, how it worked, how it interacted with other institutions, the composition of its labor force, and state management of captive and enslaved individuals.