Hittite Diplomacy by Linda Hill

"Hittite Diplomacy" explores the sophisticated diplomatic practices of the Hittite Empire in the ancient Near East, revealing how this Bronze Age kingdom rose to prominence through strategic negotiation and alliance-building. The book highlights the critical role of treaties in establishing vassal states and regulating international relations. It also examines how the Hittites skillfully managed conflicts using both military strength and diplomatic maneuvering, essential for their survival in a turbulent world. The book demonstrates that the Hittites developed an advanced diplomatic system that profoundly impacted the political structures of the ancient world. For instance, the famous Treaty of Kadesh with Egypt exemplifies their approach to resolving conflicts through negotiation rather than solely through warfare.

Organized into three parts, the book first introduces the principles of Hittite diplomacy, then examines case studies of Hittite interactions with major powers, and finally synthesizes these cases to provide a comprehensive overview of Hittite foreign policy. This approach offers a fresh perspective on Hittite diplomacy, emphasizing proactive strategies designed to shape the international environment.