Persian Empire Research Paper

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The Persian Empire was the first empire to unify regions in three continents: Asia, Europe, and Africa. It was established by Cyrus the Great (also referred to as Cyrus II) in 550 B.C., when he conquered the Median empire: effectively uniting the Persian and Median peoples. Following his conquest, Cyrus proceeded to assemble an empire, which consisted of numerous captured cities, including Parthia, Hyrcania, Armenia, and Drangiana. His largest victory was over Babylon in 539 B.C.–one that ended the 70 year long Jewish diaspora. Cyrus upheld a tolerant ideology to other cultures. He later permitted the Jews to rebuild Jerusalem. The Persian Empire would maintain the title of largest empire, complete with a network of cities, monarchical government,…show more content…
Five cities served as the Persian capitals: Pasargadae, Babylon (rebuilt), Susa, Ecbatana, and Persepolis. Darius I, Cyrus’ great-great grandson and ruler of the empire, conducted most of the empire’s legislation in Susa. Susa well equipped to accommodate a large population and act as a hub for trade, due to its easily-accessible location. Darius envisioned a new capital amongst other capitals, so he commissioned the construction of a new city, Persepolis. 200 years later, Alexander the Great destroyed the “new” capital as it was still being…show more content…
Many historians argue that Zoroastrianism was one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, predating even the Abraham-centric trio (Judaism, Islam, and Christianity). The prophet Zoroaster founded the belief system in ancient Iran. The holy scriptures of Zoroastrianism, known as the Zend Avesta, speak of one true God called Ahura Mazda (meaning Wise Lord). This deity is not vengeful, but, rather, a benevolent master and creator of the Universe. Zoroastrianism is thought to have originated the concepts of Heaven and Hell, a God and Devil, which the Abraham-centric religions later adopted. The Devil figure in Zoroastrianism is Angra Mainyu (Destructive
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