Which Mesopotamian ruler founded the Akkadian Empire in the 24th century BCE?

Sargon of Akkad founded the Akkadian Empire in the 24th century BCE.

Sargon, also called Sargon the Great, began as a ruler of the city of Akkad, whose exact location remains unknown. Ancient Mesopotamian tradition says he defeated Lugalzagesi of Uruk and then extended his authority across much of Mesopotamia. Later inscriptions and legends portray him as an exceptionally successful conqueror.

The Akkadian Empire is often described as the first known empire in history because it united many previously independent city-states under one central ruler. Its administration used Akkadian alongside Sumerian, and Akkadian became an important language of government and international diplomacy.

The empire did not last indefinitely. Sargon’s successors faced revolts, and the dynasty eventually collapsed after roughly two centuries. Even so, later Mesopotamian kings remembered Sargon as a model of imperial power and military achievement.