Ashurnasirpal II (r. 883–859 BCE) – Expanded the empire through relentless military campaigns, amassing wealth and commissioning grand palaces and temples.
Sargon II (r. 722–705 BCE) – Conquered the Kingdom of Israel (722 BCE), deporting its population, and captured Babylon, Tyre, and Sidon. He also implemented administrative reforms and built a new capital, Dur-Sharrukin.