Constantius III vs Esarhaddon

Constantius, a Roman general, married Galla Placidia, the half-sister of Emperor Honorius. This marriage strengthened his political position and made him a key figure in the Western Roman court.

Constantius was appointed co-emperor of the Western Roman Empire by Honorius, ruling as Constantius III. His reign lasted only seven months before he died of illness, but he was the de facto ruler of the West for years prior.

Esarhaddon reversed his father Sennacherib's destruction of Babylon. He ordered the reconstruction of the city, its temples, and the Esagila. He returned the statue of Marduk and granted Babylon privileges, seeking to heal the religious rift caused by his father.

Esarhaddon defeated the Cimmerian invaders in the region of Hubushna (Anatolia). The Cimmerians had been threatening Assyrian vassals. This victory secured the northern frontier of the Assyrian Empire for a time.

Esarhaddon imposed loyalty oaths on his subjects, officials, and vassal states, requiring them to swear allegiance to his chosen heir Ashurbanipal. These treaties were inscribed on tablets and included curses for violation. They ensured a smooth succession.

Esarhaddon led the Assyrian army across the Sinai desert and defeated the Kushite Pharaoh Taharqa. He captured Memphis and took the Egyptian royal family hostage. This was the first time an Assyrian king ruled Egypt, though control was brief.