The Persian Empire Chapter 2 Section 4

Key Terms Cyrus the Great Darius I Satrap Xerxes Zoroaster Dualism

Growth and Organization Persia under Medes Created Media Conquered neighbors Conquered Persia Allowed them to keep leaders Remained subject to Medes

Growth and Organization Cyrus the Great 559 BC Led revolt against Medes Conquered Asia Minor Several Geek cities Defeated Chaldeans Captured Babylon Allowed people to keep their customs Won Cyrus respect

Growth and Organization Freed Jews from Babylonian slavery Rebuilt their Temple Died fighting Cambyses II became emperor Was a tyrant

Growth and Organization Darius I Fought to restore order Permanent army Paid and trained soldiers 10,000 Immortals Bodyguard Calvary and chariots Ceremony and rituals King of Kings

Growth and Organization Symbols of power Wore robes and jewelry Satraps- were governors of a region King had officials check on satraps Strengthened Persian economy First coins minted Built roads

Growth and Organization Persia in Decline Darius was the highpoint Xerxes tried to expand Invaded Greece and was defeated Last strong emperor Rebellions started Conquered by Alexander the Great

Zoroastrianism Based on the teachings of a man named Zoroaster World created by Ahura Mazda Evil spirit Ahriman Dualism- taught that world is controlled by opposing forces of good and evil

Zorastrianism People had free will Join Mazda and fight evil Avoid bad deeds Taught how to best serve Good deeds recorded in Avesta Sacred text

Zorastrianism Avesta says people live good lives Enter heaven (pleasurable) Wicked punished for sins End of time all are forgiven

Persian Achievements Blending caused unity Peaceful empire Communication Roads Royal road 1500 miles long Messengers on horseback

Persian Achievements Art and Architecture Delicate drinking vessels Gold objects High ceiling audience hall Columns supported the ceiling Brightly painted Stone carvings