How did Sargon of Akkad unite Mesopotamian city-states?

Sargon of Akkad united the Mesopotamian city-states primarily through military conquest and strategic administrative reorganization. After rising from a position as a cupbearer in the city of Kish, Sargon defeated Lugalzagesi of Uruk, who had previously united the Sumerian city-states.12

Sargon’s unification efforts included:

• Military Campaigns: He engaged in numerous battles across southern Babylonia, reportedly fighting 34 conflicts to suppress city-states that sought to regain their independence. He famously threw down city walls and took 50 ensis (local rulers) as prisoners to consolidate his control.2
• Administrative Appointments: To secure his dynastic aims, Sargon replaced local leaders by appointing "Citizens of Akkad" to fill the offices of ensi throughout the region, extending from the Persian Gulf upward.2
• Strategic Alliances and Religion: He utilized religious influence to solidify his authority, such as appointing his daughter, Enheduanna, as a high priestess in Ur.2

While Sargon is remembered as the first great empire builder, his control over the region was frequently challenged by rebellions, as the city-states tenaciously clung to their local autonomy.12