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The Persian Empire

The Persian Empire. World History – Libertyville HS. Who were the Persians?. Centered in modern Iran, which literally means “Land of the Aryans” At its height, Empire covered parts of three continents – Asia, Europe, and Africa

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The Persian Empire

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  1. The Persian Empire World History – Libertyville HS

  2. Who were the Persians? • Centered in modern Iran, which literally means “Land of the Aryans” • At its height, Empire covered parts of three continents – Asia, Europe, and Africa • In 5th C. BC, about 45% of world’s population was part of Empire • It covered over 1 million square miles, from Indus R. to Nile R. Persian Empire, at greatest extent

  3. The Achaemenid Dynasty • Dynasty founded by Cyrus the Great (576-530 BC) • Achaemenid ruler was considered a god • “Divine right of kings” justified rule • All people were supposed to prostrate when in presence of Emperor Prostration (center)

  4. The Achaemenid Dynasty • Established a vast empire • Expanded westward to defeat Neo-Babylonians • Ended “Babylonian Captivity” • Allowed Jews to return to Israel • Cyrus died fighting the Egyptians in 530 BC Conquests of Cyrus the Great

  5. Darius, “King of Kings” (521-486 BC) • Perfected the administration of large empire • Divided empire into satraps (provinces) ruled by Persian governor • Governor oversaw local client kings • Duties • Collect taxes and tribute • Administered justice • Ran the bureaucracy that administered satrap • Acted as “General in Chief” of local military forces Satraps of Persia, circa 500 BC

  6. Darius, “King of Kings” • Maintained large standing army and bureaucracy • Darius also maintained a network of spies who kept tabs on governors and client kings • Also had large postal service • Road system and “Royal Road”, from Susa, throughout empire, to Turkish coast Royal Road (in red) – couriers could cover Its 1677 mile distance in 7 days!

  7. Client Kings • During expansion, Persians would request soil and water from neighbor who was targeted for conquest • Signified submission to Persian King of Kings • If submitted, local ruler would become Client King • Swear allegiance to KoK • Send in tribute and troops when required • Otherwise left alone to manage own people – did not interfere with local customs, religions, etc. Client king (L) receiving visitors

  8. Client Kings • If refused, Persians invaded territory • Conquer people, kill ruler and his family • Sought out surviving nobleman to become client king • Persian system widely supported by subjects & client kings, because they preserved local rules and ruled subjects with a very light touch

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