2. This is Persia…

3. Built on earlier Central Asian and Mesopotamian civilizations, Persia developed the largest empire in the world. How did Persia govern its empire? WHI.4a

4. Oldest Civilization Iron Technology Hebrews

5. WHI.4a Persians as rulers Tolerance Tolerance (acceptance) of conquered peoples – King Cyrus did not allow his soldiers to loot or burn cities as they were conquered – He also freed the Jews to return to their homeland (Jerusalem) imperial bureaucracy Emperor Darius I developed an imperial bureaucracy – Territory was divided in provinces; each ruled by a satrap – Appointed “Kings Eyes & Ears,” Army leaders, and tax collectors Road system Road system – Royal couriers delivered messages “Neither snow, nor rain, nor heat, nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds.” -Herodotus

6. Royal Roads

7. Zoroastrianism Zoroastrianism was the main Persian religion, although other religions were tolerated. Practice of Zoroastrianism – Religion of Persia – Belief in two opposing forces in the universe

8. Zoroastrianism According to this religion, a single wise god named Ahura Mazda fought a constant battle with the prince of lies and evil. According to this religion, a single wise god named Ahura Mazda fought a constant battle with the prince of lies and evil. Each individual would one day have to choose between them. Each individual would one day have to choose between them. On a final judgment day, each person will be judged for his or her actions in life. (heaven or hell!!!) On a final judgment day, each person will be judged for his or her actions in life. (heaven or hell!!!)

9. The Downfall of Persia Emperor Darius and his son, Xerxes, attempted to conquer Greece…they both failed

10. Ancient Persia Imperial Bureaucracy Zoroastrianism Royal Roads & Couriers Tolerant of Conquered People

11. R oads I mperial bureaucracy T olerance of conquered people Z oroastrianism