In 960 B. C. a new dynasty was founded by Assur-dân II., whose son
Rimmon-nirari II., and great-grandson Asshur-nasirpal, by a long series
of cruel wars once again extended the power of Assyria. The extensive
trade carried on by Phœnician merchants in Assyria at this time is
largely illustrated by the Phœnician bronzes and ivories disinterred in
the palace of Asshur-nasirpal at Nimrud.
His son, Shalmaneser II., was successful in war against the monarch of
Babylon, Benhadad, king of Damascus, the rulers of Tyre and Sidon, and
Jehu, king of Israel. In 745 B. C., Tiglath-Pileser II. became king of
Assyria, made himself master of Babylon, and had great successes in war
against Syria and Armenia, extending the empire greatly.