[NOTE: This new version features improved audio] Synopsis: The impacts of the Aridification Event lead to Akkadian collapse. Gudea of Lagash asserts independence and shepherds the south through the aftermath. The brief period of Guti domination is terminated by the Elamite invasion of Kutik-Inshushinak and the Sumerian revolt of Utu-Hegal of Uruk. “They placed fetters on (Tirigan’s) hands and put a cloth over his eyes. Utu-Hegal made him lie at Utu’s feet and on his neck he set his foot. Gutium, the fanged snake of the mountain ranges, he made drink from the cracks in the earth.” – Victory Stele of Utu-Hegal of Uruk Episode Image: Statue of Gudea, Ensi of Lagash, on display at the British Museum, 2025. My photo. Map of the Near East c. 2200 BC: https://audio.ancientworldpodcast.com/2200BC.jpg Map of the Near East c. 2112 BC: https://audio.ancientworldpodcast.com/2112BC.jpg Episode Images: https://www.flickr.com/photos/75506172@N07/albums/72177720331179161/ References and Further Reading: https://audio.ancientworldpodcast.com/A8_References.pdf Please contact [email protected] if you would like to advertise on this podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices