The Capture of Memphis by the Assyrians. The conquest of Egypt; so far from adding to the strength of the empire; strained its resources. The first invasion of the country was made by Esarhaddon; who in 670 BC captured Memphis after a fierce assault. On Esarhaddon's return to Nineveh Tirhakah retook Memphis; and; although Ashur-bani-pal afterwards occupied the country and in 661 BC sacked Thebes; Psammetichus threw off the Assyrian yoke. Illustration for Hutchinson's History of the Nations (Hutchinson; c.1920). Note: Image has been digitally enhanced to facilitate repro.