9/27 Focus: – The Persians formed one of the largest and best governed empires in the ancient world and made great cultural achievements. Do Now: – Why were the Phoenicians known as carriers of civilization?

Persian Empire Cyrus the Great – BCE – Established the Persian Empire Extended from N. Africa to India Allowed people to keep their customs

Persian Empire Darius the Great – BCE – Established large network of roads The Royal Road – Created postal system – Used a single currency – Appointed governors to run sections of the empire Called Satraps

Persian Empire Zoroastrianism – Based on the teachings of Zoroaster Monotheistic Religion – Belief in one god – God was named Ahura Mazada Good actions and thoughts lead to immortality Tolerant of other religions