Who was Nebuchadnezzar II?

Nebuchadnezzar II (r. 605/604-562 BCE) was King of Babylon during the time of the Neo-Babylonian Empire.

Why is Nebuchadnezzar II important?

Nebuchadnezzar II is important as the king who brought Babylon to its cultural, political, and military height. Under his reign, Babylon became one of the most important religious, intellectual, and cultural centers of the ancient world.

What is Nebuchadnezzar II famous for?

Nebuchadnezzar II is best known from his portrayal in the biblical Book of Daniel where is the antagonist of God. There is no outside corroboration for this story, however.

How did Nebuchadnezzar II die?

Nebuchadnezzar II died of natural causes at Babylon after a reign of 43 years.

Nebuchadnezzar II

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Definition

Nebuchadnezzar II (r. 605/604-562 BCE) was the greatest King of ancient Babylon during the period of the Neo-Babylonian Empire (626-539 BCE), succeeding its founder, his father, Nabopolassar (r. 626-605 BCE). He is best known from the biblical books of Daniel and Jeremiah where he is portrayed as the king who stands against God.

More about: Nebuchadnezzar II

Timeline

634 BCE - 562 BCE
Life of King Nebuchadnezzar II of the Neo-Babylonian Empire.
605 BCE - 562 BCE
Nebuchadnezzar II is king of Babylon.
601 BCE
Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylon unsuccessfully attempts to invade Egypt.
597 BCE
Babylonian king Nebuchadnezar captures Jerusalem.
597 BCE - 587 BCE
Jews are deported to Babylonia.
586 BCE - 572 BCE
Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylon besieges Tyre, unsuccessfully.
585 BCE
Nebuchadnezzar's armies destroy the Phoenician settlement at Tel Kabri.
c. 575 BCE
Nebuchadnezzar II builds the Ishtar Gate and great walls of Babylon.