Midas of Phrygia vs Nabonidus

Midas formed an alliance with the Assyrian king Sargon II to counter the Cimmerian threat. This diplomatic move secured Phrygia's borders temporarily, but the alliance was fragile and did not prevent future Cimmerian invasions.

Midas commissioned the Midas Monument (Midas City) in Yaz

The myth of Midas's golden touch, where everything he touched turned to gold, became a popular Greek legend. While not historical, this story reflects Midas's reputation for wealth and power in ancient literature, influencing later cultural narratives.

Midas was defeated by the Cimmerians, who overran Phrygia and sacked the capital Gordion. According to historical accounts, Midas committed suicide by drinking bull's blood after the defeat, ending his reign and the Phrygian kingdom's independence.

Nabonidus elevated the moon god Sin above the traditional Babylonian chief god Marduk. He built temples to Sin in Harran and Ur, and attempted to establish Sin as the supreme deity, causing conflict with the Marduk priesthood in Babylon.

Nabonidus left Babylon and resided for ten years at the oasis of Tayma in Arabia, leaving his son Belshazzar as regent in Babylon. His absence from the capital weakened his authority and fueled resentment among the Babylonian elite.

Nabonidus conquered the city of Harran, which had been under Median control. He restored the temple of Sin there, fulfilling a religious vow and extending Babylonian influence into northern Mesopotamia.

Cyrus the Great of Persia captured Babylon without a major battle, as his forces diverted the Euphrates River and entered the city through the river gates. Nabonidus was captured and exiled, ending the Neo-Babylonian Empire.