Zidanta I
Zidanta I was a king of the Hittites, ruling for 10 years, ca. 1560–1550 BC or 1496–1486 BC. According to the Telepinu Proclamation, this king became a ruler by murder.
Family
Zidanta was married to the daughter of Hantili, brother-in-law to King Mursili I.
It is known that his wife’s name ends with either -ša or -ta.
Prior to Kingship
Zidanta encouraged and helped Hantili to kill Mursili and seize the throne. He then served Hantili I for the duration of his reign.
At the end of Hantili’s life, Zidanta killed Pišeni, the legitimate heir, together with Pišeni’s children and foremost servants, and so made it possible for himself to become king.
Reign
His reign is thought to have lasted about 10 years around 1560-1550 BC.
Assassination
Zidanta was killed by his own son, Ammuna, who then succeeded him.