Why are Assyrians considered brutal and compared with the Mongols? What did they do?

 The Assyrians, an ancient civilization that existed in Mesopotamia, are often described as having a reputation for military brutality and cruelty. This characterization is based on historical accounts and inscriptions that depict the Assyrians engaging in brutal tactics during warfare. It's important to note that these descriptions primarily come from the records of their enemies and may be influenced by the perspective of those who were conquered.

Key points contributing to the perception of Assyrians as brutal include:

1. **Military Tactics:** The Assyrians were known for their highly organized and powerful military. They employed advanced siege warfare techniques, including the use of battering rams and siege engines, to conquer fortified cities.

2. **Use of Terror:** The Assyrians were reported to use tactics aimed at instilling fear in their enemies. This included the public display of impaled bodies, beheadings, and other gruesome methods to intimidate opposing forces and discourage resistance.

3. **Mass Deportations:** One of the infamous tactics employed by the Assyrians was the practice of mass deportations. After conquering a city or region, they would relocate a significant portion of the population to other parts of the empire. This had the dual effect of reducing the potential for rebellion and assimilating diverse populations within the Assyrian Empire.

4. **Annihilation of Cities:** In some instances, the Assyrians engaged in the complete destruction of cities, including the killing of inhabitants and the razing of buildings. The destruction of cities served as a deterrent to other cities contemplating resistance.

Comparisons with the Mongols:

The comparison between the Assyrians and the Mongols is sometimes drawn due to the perceived ruthlessness of both empires in their military campaigns. The Mongols, under leaders such as Genghis Khan, were known for their conquests and the creation of one of the largest empires in history. Like the Assyrians, the Mongols used tactics that instilled fear in their enemies, including the sack of cities, mass killings, and the use of psychological warfare.

It's crucial to approach historical accounts with an awareness of potential biases, as the descriptions of the brutality of ancient civilizations often come from the perspectives of their adversaries. While the Assyrians and Mongols were powerful military empires known for their conquests, their methods and impact should be considered within the broader historical context.