TLDR - Cyrus the Great

Cyrus the Great

Cyrus the Great, born circa 600 BCE, stands out as one of history's most celebrated leaders and the architect of the Achaemenid Empire, which emerged as the largest empire in the ancient world. He was born to a Persian royal lineage, the son of Cambyses I, king of Anshan, and Mandane, a daughter of Astyages, the Median king. From an early age, Cyrus demonstrated key traits that would later characterize his reign: he was charismatic, strategic, and possessed a profound sense of justice.

Cyrus's journey to power commenced in the mid-6th century BCE when he orchestrated a rebellion against his grandfather, Astyages, the ruler of the Medes (due to harsh rule and desires for independence). The Medes had historically held sway over Persia, but Cyrus capitalized on the unrest among the Persian nobility and the Median subjects. In 550 BCE, rallying his loyal supporters, he successfully dethroned Astyages, merging the Medes and Persians under his command. This pivotal victory marked the dawn of the Achaemenid Empire and established Cyrus as a formidable leader.

Once in power, Cyrus focused on expanding his realm through a series of strategic military campaigns. His initial major conquest was against Lydia, ruled by the famed wealthy King Croesus. In 547 BCE, Cyrus achieved a decisive victory near Sardis, incorporating Lydia into his burgeoning empire. This conquest not only expanded his territory but also enriched him with resources, including access to Lydia's vast gold mines.

Cyrus's military prowess was further exemplified by his conquest of Babylon in 539 BCE. Babylon, one of the ancient world’s most influential and culturally rich cities, fell under his control after a meticulously planned siege. His entry into Babylon was marked by celebration and respect. In stark contrast to many conquerors, Cyrus displayed extraordinary leniency towards the Babylonians, allowing them to maintain their customs and religious practices, which won him their loyalty and admiration.

Cyrus Cylinder - words on cylinder are written in Old Babylonian cuneiform
Photograph by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net)., CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Cyrus's legacy is deeply rooted in his innovative approach to governance. He is often regarded as one of the first leaders to advocate for human rights, characterized by policies of tolerance and respect for diverse cultures. This is embodied in the Cyrus Cylinder, frequently considered the first declaration of human rights. The Cylinder outlines his commitment to justice and his policies aimed at repatriating displaced peoples, including the Jews, allowing them to return to Jerusalem and restore their temple.

Why was cylinder used for writing? Why not paper or on wall?
Clay cylinders were favored for writing due to their durability, as they outlasted paper, which was not widely used until much later. Additionally, these cylinders served a dual purpose as seals; when rolled over soft clay, they not only showed the imprinted text but also left an impression that verified the authenticity of documents or decrees, indicating authority and ownership. This practical design allowed clay cylinders to offer a more portable and secure method of preserving important information.

Cyrus's Tomb, built around 530 BCE in Pasargadae (Iran), is the resting place of Cyrus the Great.
Faramarz, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

Cyrus the Great ruled until his death (70 years old) in 530 BCE during a military engagement in Central Asia. His influence persisted long after his demise, as his empire continued to flourish under his successors, including his son Cambyses II and later Darius I. The Achaemenid Empire became a paradigm of administrative excellence, featuring an extensive network of roads and an efficient communication system that enhanced trade and cultural interactions. Today, Cyrus the Great symbolizes effective leadership, justice, and the advocacy of human rights in the ancient world.