Utu-hengal

Utu-hengal (also written Utu-heg̃al, Utu-heĝal, and sometimes transcribed as Utu-hegal, Utu-hejal) was one of the first native kings of Sumer after centuries of Akkadian and Gutian rule.

Life and reign

There are several theories regarding his background. The most common is that he was a governor of Uruk who revolted against the Guti during the 22nd century BC.

After defeating the Guti with the aid of other cities, Utu-hengal established himself as the king of Sumer. He was, however, unable to maintain power, and seven years later Ur-Nammu, the governor of Ur, became the king of Sumer.

Family

Utu-hengal had a daughter who married Ur-Nammu and gave birth to his successor, Shulgi. He was an ancestor of Amar-Sin.