What is an Empire? An empire is a political unit in which a number of peoples or countries are controlled by a single ruler Examples of empires: Roman Empire, British Empire, Russian Empire, Mongol Empire, Ottoman Empire, Byzantine Empire What is the main purpose of an empire? Is the United States an empire?

Where was the Persian empire Located? At its peak, it stretched from Egypt in the west, through the Middle East, to Central Asia and into today's Pakistan in the east.

Persian Government King Cyrus (the Great) Came to power in 550BC All who I have conquered – if you honor me as your king, your traditions and beliefs will be respected. King Cyrus (the Great) Came to power in 550BC Treated conquered people fairly Honored their local customs and religions Allowed people to live their lives as they had before

Notice how plain his tomb is? Tomb of Cyrus died in 530 BC Notice how plain his tomb is?

I really hate those Greeks! King Darius The Ten Thousand Immortals helped Darius seize power Ruled much the same as Cyrus had Established an efficient and well- organized government Divided Persia into 20 provinces Called satrapies (like states) Each ruled by a satrap (governor) Empire extended over 2,500 miles but could never conquer the Greeks in the west (more on this later…”This is Sparta!!!!!!!!!!!”) I really hate those Greeks!

Did you notice Greece is not part of his empire!?!?

PersiaN Technology Pottery Used bronze and iron Chariots System of roads – the Royal Road Postal system Used coined money

Persian Religion Called Zoroastrianism 2 armies fighting for your soul I’m not! I’m the good one! Called Zoroastrianism 2 armies fighting for your soul Similar to some monotheistic religions (like Christianity) in 2 ways: - Belief in the final judgment - Concept of heaven/hell 2 gods: Ahura Mazda (good) Ahriman (bad)