What is "bartatua"

Bartatua ( or Par-ta-tu-a, , ) was a Scythian king.

Kashtariti, a Median chieftain, planned an incursion into Assyrian territory. His allies included the Cimmerians and the Mannaeans. Scythian king Ishpaka allied himself with the Medians in ca. 678 BCE. In the meantime, Ishpakai died in battle against Assyrian king Esarhaddon in ca. 675 BCE, and was succeeded by Bartatua. Kashtariti's alliance crumbled shortly thereafter, and the Assyrians thwarted Kashtariti's forces. In an effort to forge peace with the Assyrians, he married a daughter of Assyrian king Esarhaddon in 674 or 676 BCE. As a consequence, Bartatua would have had to serve as a vassal to Assyria. Ultimately, although no concrete evidence for the marriage exists, it is implied by the alliance formed between Assyria and Scythia.

The Scythians, aiding the Assyrians, subjugated Media between 653 and 652 BCE. As a reward for their help, the Assyrians left control of Media to the Scythians. The Scythians maintained rule over Media until 625 BCE with the rise of Cyaxares as king of Media.

Bartatua died in ca. 645 BCE, succeeded by his son, Madys.