Assyria, one of the most influential kingdoms of the Ancient Near East, expanded from city-state to empire, from the 2nd millennium BCE to the 7th century BCE. In this introduction, Karen Radner outlines its history, highlighting the archaeological rediscovery in the 19th century and excavations in regions like Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. The Assyrian Empire was one of the largest, multicultural, and multiethnic states, providing insights into the life and diversity of its inhabitants through archaeological records.