1. Mid-Sixth Century BCE to Early Seventh Century CE
Persia
Mid-Sixth Century BCE to Early Seventh Century CE

2. Indo-European Roots Persians and Medes- closely related tribes
Migrated into Iran in centuries preceding 1000BCE from central Asia
Loose subjugation (paid tribute) to Babylonian and Assyrian Empires
Pastoralists, but limited agriculture early on
Clan was primary political organization- headed by male warriors
Socially organized into classes of warriors, priests, and peasants (similar to Celtic and early Aryan class structure)
Militarily powerful through use of horse (mounted archers)

3. Medes
1st Indo-European tribe to bring Iranian Plateau under their control
Overthrown by Persians under Cyrus the Achaemenid

4. Four Major Dynasties/Empires
Achaemenid
Seleucid
Parthian
Sasanid

5. Achaemenid
558BCE- 330BCE
Cyrus- founder
Administration of Empire

6. Administration Satrapies- administrative and taxation districts
Eyes and Ears of the King- agents of king, spies
Regularizing taxes- formal taxes instead of tribute, more regular
Issued coins (1st standardized coins in Lydia)
Standardized laws
Built and maintained roads
Postal service