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 – In 5 th 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

The Achaemenid Dynasty Dynasty founded by Cyrus the Great ( 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)

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

Darius, “King of Kings” ( 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

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!

Client Kings During expansion, Persians would request soil and water from neighbor who was targeted for conquestsoil and water – 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

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