Persian Empire Do Now: Answer the two “Connect to History” questions about the Persian Royal Road on page 102.

Rise of the Persian Empire Natural Resources (Fertile Farmland, copper, lead, gold, silver) Thriving trade

King Cyrus, The Great 580-529 BC empire over 2000 miles Military genius conquered with tolerance and diplomacy (honored local customs and religions) Allowed the Hebrews to return to Jerusalem (ended the Babylonian Captivity)

I put an end to their misfortune.” “I am Cyrus. King of the world. When I entered Babylon... I did not allow anyone to terrorize the land... I kept in view the needs of Babylon and all its sanctuaries to promote their well-being... I put an end to their misfortune.” From The First Charter of the Rights of Nations Inscribed on a clay cylinder in cuneiform discovered in 1879 now in The British Museum, London.

Cyrus II the Great (or Cyrus III), established the Persian Empire and ruled it from 550–530. Cambyses II (or Cambyses III), his son, ruled 530– 522. Smerdis, his alleged brother, ruled 522. Darius I the Great, son of Hystaspes, ruled 521–486. Xerxes the Great, his son, ruled 486–465.

King Darius, The Great 522-485 BC seized the throne in 522 with help of “Ten Thousand Immortals” (elite fighting force) Extended to the Indus Valley (2500 Miles) Built Persepolis Failed to conquer Greece

Persepolis

Government under Darius Appointed a Satrap (local governor) to rule over conquered lands Network of inspectors, “Kings Eyes and Ears” (spies) Royal Road – 1677 miles (promoted trade and communication) Introduced coined money (promoted trade) Persian Royal Road

Zoroastrian (Persian Religion) Zharathusta (Zoroaster) taught that two armies fight for one’s soul Ahura Mazda (truth and light) vs. Ahriman (evil and darkness) Zend-Avesta – holy writings Ideas of Heaven, Hell, and final judgment similar to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam

Dualistic Battle of Good vs. Evil Ahura Mazda “Holy Spirit” (Truth and Light) Ahriman “Destructive Spirit” (Evil and Darkness)