Ahaha

Not to be confused with Aha ha.

Ahaha (fl. circa 1870 BC), was an Ancient Assyrian businesswoman of the city of Assur whom is one of the earliest-known well-documented businesswomen in history. She is known for pursuing the resolution an issue of financial fraud committed against her.

History

Ahaha lived during the Old Assyrian period and had two brothers, Buzazu and Assur-mutappil. During her era of Assyrian culture, it was customary for women to head the household in the absence of their husbands, and conduct business and manage finances.

Commerce

During this time period, Assyrians would purchase goods from foreign traders such as Babylonia. This purchased goods would then be loaded on caravans, transported to Kanesh and other regional areas, and finally be sold for gold and silver.

Assyrian women contributed to the market in various ways. They were involved in textile production, merchant loans, real estate and investing. They would also monitor foreign fashions and market trends.

Fraud recovery letter

Cuneiform tablets excavated at Kanesh reveal that Ahaha, upon learning that fraud was committed against her, wrote a letter to her brother stating:

"I have nothing else apart from these funds... Take care to act so that I will not be ruined!... Let a detailed letter from you come to me by the very next caravan, saying if they do pay the silver... Now is the time to do me a favour and to save me from financial stress!"

The letter highlights the urgency of the retrieval of her stolen silver and a request for a notice if retrieved.

See also

• Ama-e