Parthian, Roman and Sasanian Mesopotamia

Moment 01c. 141 BC

The Parthians gain control over much of Mesopotamia, although control of the region continues to shift during later centuries.

Moment 02AD 116

The Roman emperor Trajan briefly conquers much of Mesopotamia, but Roman control is difficult to maintain.

Moment 03AD 224

The Sasanian Persian Empire begins and later controls much of Mesopotamia for several centuries.

The End of Ancient Mesopotamian Rule

Moment 04AD 637

Muslim Arab armies defeat Sasanian forces in the region. Mesopotamia becomes part of the expanding Islamic world, marking the end of the ancient political era of Mesopotamian history.