
Hittites
The Hittites were an ancient civilization that emerged around 1750 BCE in what is now Turkey. They are known for their powerful empire, which reached its peak around the 14th century BCE, rivaling Egypt and Babylon. The Hittites spoke an Indo-European language and developed advanced technologies, including ironworking. Their society was marked by a strong legal system and a rich culture influenced by neighboring civilizations. They are best known for their contributions to early diplomacy, exemplified by treaties, and for their significant role in the history of the ancient Near East before their decline around the 12th century BCE.