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Built on earlier Central Asian and Mesopotamian civilizations, Persia developed the largest empire in the world. How did Persia govern its empire? WHI.4a
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This is Persia…
Built on earlier Central Asian and Mesopotamian civilizations, Persia developed the largest empire in the world.
How did Persia govern its empire?
WHI.4a
Oldest Civilization
Iron Technology
Hebrews
WHI.4aPersians as rulers• 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)• 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
– 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
Royal Roads
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
Zoroastrianism• 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.
• On a final judgment day, each person will be judged for his or her actions in life. (heaven or hell!!!)
The Downfall of Persia
• Emperor Darius and his son, Xerxes, attempted to conquer Greece…they both failed
AncientPers
ia
Imperial
Bureaucracy
Zoroastrianism
Royal Roads
& Courier
s
Tolerant of
Conquered
People
Roads
Imperial bureaucracy
Tolerance of conquered people
Zoroastrianism