1. The Persian Empire
Chapter 2
Section 4

2. Key Terms
Cyrus the Great
Darius I
Satrap
Xerxes
Zoroaster
Dualism

3. Growth and Organization
Persia under Medes
Created Media
Conquered neighbors
Conquered Persia
Allowed them to keep leaders
Remained subject to Medes

4. Growth and Organization
Cyrus the Great
559 BC
Led revolt against Medes
Conquered Asia Minor
Several Geek cities
Defeated Chaldeans
Captured Babylon
Allowed people to keep their customs
Won Cyrus respect

5. Growth and Organization
Freed Jews from Babylonian slavery
Rebuilt their Temple
Died fighting
Cambyses II became emperor
Was a tyrant

6. Growth and Organization
Darius I
Fought to restore order
Permanent army
Paid and trained soldiers
10,000 Immortals
Bodyguard
Calvary and chariots
Ceremony and rituals
King of Kings

7. Growth and Organization
Symbols of power
Wore robes and jewelry
Satraps- were governors of a region
King had officials check on satraps
Strengthened Persian economy
First coins minted
Built roads

8. Growth and Organization
Persia in Decline
Darius was the highpoint
Xerxes tried to expand
Invaded Greece and was defeated
Last strong emperor
Rebellions started
Conquered by Alexander the Great

9. Zoroastrianism Based on the teachings of a man named Zoroaster
World created by Ahura Mazda
Evil spirit Ahriman
Dualism- taught that world is controlled by opposing forces of good and evil

10. Zorastrianism People had free will Join Mazda and fight evil
Avoid bad deeds
Taught how to best serve
Good deeds recorded in Avesta
Sacred text

11. Zorastrianism Avesta says people live good lives
Enter heaven (pleasurable)
Wicked punished for sins
End of time all are forgiven

12. Persian Achievements Blending caused unity Peaceful empire
Communication
Roads
Royal road 1500 miles long
Messengers on horseback

13. Persian Achievements Art and Architecture Delicate drinking vessels
Gold objects
High ceiling audience hall
Columns supported the ceiling
Brightly painted
Stone carvings