Zidanta I
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Zidanta I | |
|---|---|
| Predecessor | Hantili I |
| Successor | Ammuna |
| Spouse(s) | [...]ša/ta, daughter of Hantili I[1] |
| Children | King Ammuna[2] |
| Relatives | Huzziya I (grandson) |
Zidanta I was a king of the Hittites (Old Kingdom), ruling for 10 years, ca. 1560–1550 BC (middle chronology)[3] or 1496–1486 BC (short chronology timeline). According to the Telepinu Proclamation, this king became a ruler by murder.[4][5]
Prior to Kingship
The Royal Coup
Zidanta encouraged and helped Hantili to kill Mursili and seize the throne.[7] He then served Hantili I for the duration of his reign.
Usurpation of the Throne
At the end of Hantili’s life, Zidanta killed Pišeni, the legitimate heir, together with Pišeni’s children and foremost servants, and so made it possible for himself to become king.