Babylonia took the lead; the other subject nations followed in its train.
Saul-suma-yukin had become naturalised in Babylonia.

The experiment of appointing an Assyrian prince as viceroy had failed; he had identified himself with his subjects, and like them dreamed of independence.

He adopted the style and titles of the ancient Babylonian mouarchs; even the Sumerian language was revived in public documents, and the son of Esar-haddon put himself at the head of a national movement.

The Assyrian supremacy was rejected, and once more Babylon was free.
The revolt lasted for some years.

When it began we do not know; but it was not till B.C.648 that it was finally suppressed, and Saul-suma-yukin put to death after a reign of twenty years.