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"The Subjugation of Phoenicia: Assyrian Dominance in 701 BCE"
In 701 BCE, the powerful Neo-Assyrian Empire, under the rule of King Sennacherib (r. 705-681 BCE), exerted direct control over the prosperous coastal cities of Phoenicia, reducing them to vassal status. This event was part of a broader Assyrian strategy to dominate the lucrative trade networks of the eastern Mediterranean and secure tribute from wealthy maritime states.
Phoenicia, a collection of independent city-states such as Tyre, Sidon, Byblos, and Arwad, had long been a target of Assyrian expansion due to its wealth from trade, shipbuilding, and purple dye production. Earlier Assyrian kings, including Tiglath-Pileser III (r. 745-727 BCE) and Sargon II (r. 722-705 BCE), had already imposed tribute and military obligations on the Phoenicians. However, resistance was frequent, particularly from Tyre, which relied on its island fortress for protection.
When Sennacherib came to power, he faced widespread revolts across the empire, including in Phoenicia. In response, he launched a brutal campaign to reassert Assyrian dominance:
- Siege of Sidon: Sennacherib deposed its rebellious king, Luli (Elulaios), who fled to Cyprus. The Assyrians installed a pro-Assyrian ruler, Ethbaal (Tuba'lu), and divided Sidon's territories.
- Submission of Tyre: Though the mainland city surrendered, the island stronghold of Tyre resisted, leading to a prolonged blockade. King Elulaios (Luli) of Tyre and Sidon had previously defied Assyria, but his power was broken.
- Other Cities: Byblos, Arwad, and smaller Phoenician cities submitted, sending tribute and hostages to Nineveh.
Phoenicia's vassalage under Assyria marked a turning point—while the cities retained some autonomy, their golden age of independence was over. The Assyrian grip weakened only with the empire's collapse in the late 7th century BCE, paving the way for Babylonian and later Persian domination.
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