Babylon defeats Egypt at Carchemish
About this date: The Babylonian Chronicle places the campaign in Nabopolassar's 21st year, before Nebuchadnezzar's accession in 605 BCE.
The Babylonian Chronicle describes Nebuchadnezzar, still crown prince, defeating Egyptian forces at Carchemish and pursuing them toward Hamath.
Historical context
This change in regional power supplies essential context for the pressure on Judah before the deportations and Jerusalem's destruction.
Key points
- The battle precedes Nebuchadnezzar's accession.
- The chronicle follows military operations beyond one city.
- Judah's later crisis belongs within this larger regional contest.
People
- Nebuchadnezzar II
- Nabopolassar
Sources and further reading
- Chronicle tablet 21946
Identifies the tablet and its 605–594 BCE historical coverage. - Babylonian Chronicle ABC 5
Campaign at Carchemish and Nebuchadnezzar's accession.