Kings of Stone

Drawing on decades of archaeological and philological discoveries, Archaeologist R Jay Driskill, presents a comprehensive history of the Hittite Empire. Once a forgotten civilization, the Hittites emerged from obscurity to stand as a formidable power in the ancient Near East, rivaling Egypt, Babylonia, and Assyria. In "Kings of Stone: The Hittite Enigma," Driskill synthesizes a century of groundbreaking research, offering readers an accessible yet scholarly exploration of this enigmatic people. From their origins in the early second millennium BCE to their ultimate collapse around 1180 BCE, witness the rise and fall of an empire whose innovations in military strategy, diplomacy, and law profoundly shaped the ancient world. Driskill, whose fascination with the Hittites began with their paradoxical nature—central to ancient Near Eastern politics yet peripheral to historical consciousness—integrates the latest archaeological findings with meticulous translations of key cuneiform texts. Discover their unique Indo-European language, their adaptation of Mesopotamian cuneiform, and the intricate details of their society, religion, and daily life. "Kings of Stone" traces the arc of Hittite civilization through its imperial phase under rulers like Suppiluliuma I and ?attušili III, whose influence stretched from the Aegean Sea to the Euphrates River. Explore their capital at Hattuša, delve into their diplomatic achievements, and unravel the mystery of their sudden disappearance during the tumultuous "Sea Peoples" period. This book is an essential read for anyone intrigued by ancient civilizations, offering a vivid and authoritative account of the Hittites' enduring legacy.