Final answer:
We know about the ancient Assyrians through direct records left by them, archaeological discoveries, and modern written accounts by historians and scholars.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ancient Assyrians left behind a wealth of information that allows us to know a great deal about them. One important source of information is through direct records left by the ancient Assyrians themselves. They had a tradition of collecting and copying learning and literature from across the Middle East, and King Asshurbanipal even created a massive library to house these texts. Parts of this library survived and provide valuable insights into the beliefs, languages, and literature of the ancient Middle East.
Another way we learn about the ancient Assyrians is through archaeological discoveries. Through excavations, archaeologists have found a range of artifacts, including reliefs, sculptures, clay tablets, and inscriptions. These artifacts provide important evidence about Assyrian culture, politics, and numerical systems. For example, the discovery of lion weights sheds light on their trade and economy.
While we do not have access to oral traditions passed down directly from the ancient Assyrians, we can still gather information about them through the interpretation of artifacts and written records. Modern written accounts by historians and scholars also contribute to our understanding of the ancient Assyrians. By analyzing and synthesizing these sources, we are able to reconstruct a comprehensive picture of this ancient civilization.