The Third Dynasty of Ur, succeeding the Akkad Dynasty, marked a significant period in Mesopotamian history. After the fall of the Akkad Dynasty, a period of obscurity ensued, characterized by a lack of documentation and artifacts, aside from one for Dudu of Akkad. This era saw the rise of the Gutian invaders, whose rule lasted between 25 to 124 years, depending on sources, leading to a decline in agriculture and record-keeping, and culminating in famine and high grain prices.

Utu-hengal of Uruk ended the Gutian rule and was succeeded by Ur-Nammu, the founder of the Ur III dynasty, likely after serving as Utu-hengal's governor. Ur-Nammu gained prominence by defeating the ruler of Lagash and was known for creating the Code of Ur-Nammu, an early Mesopotamian law code.

Significant advancements occurred under King Shulgi, who centralized administration, standardized processes, and expanded the empire's territory, including capturing Susa and subduing the Elamite king Kutik-Inshushinak.^[17] The Ur III dynasty expanded its territory significantly, stretching from southeastern Anatolia to the Persian Gulf, with the spoils of war primarily benefiting the kings and temples of Ur.^[18]

The Ur III dynasty frequently clashed with the highland tribes of the Zagros Mountains, such as the Simurrum and Lullubi, and also with Elam.^[19] Simultaneously, in the Mari region, Semitic military rulers known as Shakkanakkus, such as Puzur-Ishtar, coexisted with or slightly preceded the Ur III dynasty.^[20]

The dynasty's decline began under Ibbi-Sin, who failed in his military campaigns against Elam. In 2004/1940 BCE, Elamites, allied with Susa and led by Kindattu of the Shimashki dynasty, captured Ur and Ibbi-Sin, marking the end of the Ur III dynasty. The Elamites then occupied the kingdom for 21 years.

Post-Ur III, the region fell under the influence of the Amorites, leading to the Isin-Larsa period. The Amorites, originally nomadic tribes from the northern Levant, gradually adopted agriculture and established independent dynasties in various Mesopotamian cities, including Isin, Larsa, and later Babylon.