MANISHTUSU

(reigned 2275–2261 B.C.)

Akkadian king, son of Sargon of Akkad. Although, like his predecessor and brother Rimush, he had to suppress widespread rebellions against his rule, he also conducted long-distance trade, as with Magan, and engaged in building activities. Later, tradition credited him with the foundation of the Ishtartempleat Nineveh. According to some “historical” omens, Manishtusu was killed by his courtiers with their cylinderseals.