King Ashurbanipal was the last great king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, reigning from 668 to 627 BCE. He is best known for his military conquests and for expanding the empire to its greatest territorial extent. Ashurbanipal was also a patron of the arts and learning, establishing one of the world's first libraries in Nineveh, which housed thousands of clay tablets containing texts on various subjects. His reign marked a period of cultural and intellectual achievement, as well as significant architectural projects. Ashurbanipal's military campaigns included victories over the Elamites and Egyptians, solidifying Assyrian dominance in the region. His legacy is reflected in the rich historical records and artifacts that provide insight into ancient Mesopotamian civilization.