Tiglath-Pileser III is a prominent king of Assyria in the eighth century BCE (ruled 745–727 BC) and is widely regarded as the founder of the Neo-Assyrian Empire.

Tiglath-Pileser III seizes the Assyrian throne during a civil war and kills the royal family.

He makes sweeping changes to the Assyrian government, considerably improving its efficiency and security.

Assyrian forces become a standing army.

Tiglath-Pileser III subjects Babylonia to tribute, severely punishes Urartu (Armenia), and defeats the Medes and the Hittites.

He reconquers Syria (destroying Damascus) and the Mediterranean seaports of Phoenicia.

Tiglath-Pileser III also occupies Philistia and Israel.

Later in his reign, Tiglath-Pileser III assumes total control of Babylonia.

Tiglath-Pileser III discourages revolts against Assyrian rule, with the use of forced deportations of thousands of people all over the empire.

He is considered to be one of the most successful military commanders in world history, conquering most of the world known to the Assyrians before his death.