Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/organising-empire-assyrian-way
**Course Review: Organising an Empire: The Assyrian Way** If you have ever been intrigued by ancient civilizations and the complexities of their governance, "Organising an Empire: The Assyrian Way" on Coursera is a course you won't want to miss. This fascinating journey delves into the Assyrian Empire, one of the most powerful and expansive empires in history, which thrived between the 9th and 7th centuries BC. ### Overview The course provides a thorough exploration of the Assyrian Empire, offering insights not only into its geographical extent—which spanned modern-day northern Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, parts of Israel, southeastern Turkey, and western Iran—but also into the innovative administrative strategies that underpinned its success. The Assyrians were pioneers of state organization, and understanding their approach provides timeless lessons in governance and management that are relevant even today. ### Syllabus Breakdown The syllabus is thoughtfully structured into five engaging modules: 1. **Introducing Ancient Assyria**: This introductory module lays the groundwork for understanding the empire’s historical context, including its rise and significance. It effectively sets the stage by highlighting the Assyrian social structure, culture, and military prowess. 2. **Meet the CEO: The Assyrian King**: Focusing on the charismatic and often formidable figures at the pinnacle of Assyrian power, this section examines the role of the king as not just a ruler, but a CEO in a corporate state. You'll learn about leadership strategies and the king's influence over both administration and military conquests. 3. **A Visit to the Head Office: The Royal Capital and Court**: This module immerses learners in the grandeur of the Assyrian capital, showcasing its architectural splendor and the administrative functions of the royal court. The insights into court life and decision-making processes offer a unique perspective on the complexities of ruling an empire. 4. **Regional Managers: Outsourcing Power**: Here, you'll explore how the Assyrian Empire managed its vast territories through local governors and vassal states. This module emphasizes the importance of delegation and local governance, a concept that resonates with contemporary organizational management. 5. **Human Resources: Commodities, Consumers, and Product**: This section dives into the economic aspects of the empire, examining trade networks, resource management, and the role of the Assyrian economy in maintaining imperial power. The exploration of commodities and consumer behavior presents a fascinating analysis of ancient market dynamics. 6. **The Fruits of Empire: Expenses and Revenue**: Concluding the course, this module focuses on the financial aspects of empire management, discussing the expenses involved in maintaining such a vast state and how revenues were generated. This examination provides crucial lessons on fiscal responsibility and resource allocation. ### Recommendation "Organising an Empire: The Assyrian Way" is not just a history course; it's an enlightening experience that melds historical scholarship with practical insights into management and leadership. The course is well-paced, engaging, and richly illustrated, making complex topics accessible and interesting. Each module is packed with discussions, visual aids, and thought-provoking questions that encourage critical reflection. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student of political science, or a professional interested in organizational management, this course is highly recommended. It offers a deep understanding of one of history’s greatest empires, backed by lessons that can be applied in various aspects of modern life. Enrol today on Coursera and take a step back in time to explore the Assyrian Empire. You’ll be surprised at how much you can learn about power, governance, and the intricacies of building an empire.
Introducing Ancient Assyria
Meet the CEO: The Assyrian KingA Visit to the Head Office: The Royal Capital and CourtRegional Managers: Outsourcing PowerHuman Resources: Commodities, Consumers, and ProductThe Fruits of Empire: Expenses and RevenueDiscover the mighty kingdom of Assyria, which came to be the world’s first great empire three thousand years ago. From the 9th to the 7th centuries BC, during the imperial phase of Assyria’s long history, modern day northern Iraq was the central region of a state reaching from the Mediterranean Sea to the Persian Gulf, and incorporating what is now Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon, as well as half of Israel, and wide parts of south-eastern Turkey, and Western Iran. In its geographical extent, this stat
Other courses on ancient history sometimes stay as mere chronicles and not a message. This course is different. It gives a strong emphasis on how ancient ideas are never ancient at all.
Interesting, entertaining course that has increased my interest in history especially the empires that arose around the world after the fall of the Assyrian Empire.
This is such an amazing course! Prof.Radner has done an excellent job at presenting topics and organizing materials. Highly recommend this course to anyone who's interested in ancient civilizations.
I really really enjoyed learning about the history and empire-managing ways of the Ancient Assyrians. I would love to see more Ancient Near Eastern history classes in the future!
It was a brilliant way if having a course. I've enjoyed every piece of it as it's way more interestingly and intuitively set up than many similar courses on the ancient world.