persepolis and the persian empire Flashcards
What modern-day countries did the Persian Empire encompass?
Iran, Egypt, Turkey, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine.
When did the Achaemenid Empire exist, and under which rulers did it rise and fall?
The Achaemenid Empire lasted from 559 BCE to 331 BCE. It was created under Cyrus II, reached its greatest heights under Darius, and fell under Xerxes.
What is a satrapy in the Persian Empire?
A satrapy was a province governed by a satrap, who had autonomy but was responsible for paying taxes and serving the Emperor. This system was implemented by Cyrus the Great.
What resources contributed to the wealth of the Persian Empire?
Minerals, timber, and gifts of tribute such as gold from India and horses from Babylonia.
How did the Persian Empire handle trade and local governance?
The empire had an efficient trade system that facilitated the movement of goods. It allowed local traditions to persist but required taxes and military service.
Why were horses significant to the Persian military?
The plains of Persia were well-suited for horses, which contributed to the success of the Persian military.
How did Persian kings maintain respect rather than fear from their subjects?
Persian kings rarely imposed their own culture and instead sought cooperation, earning the respect of their subjects.
What is Pasargadae, and why is it significant?
Pasargadae was the capital of the Persian Empire under Cyrus the Great. It was known for respecting cultural diversity and served as a national shrine and a site for royal coronations.
What role did Ecbatana play in the Persian Empire?
Ecbatana was the summer capital and treasury for Persian kings, renowned for its wealth and architecture.
What transformation did Susa undergo under Persian rule?
After Cyrus captured Susa in 539 BCE, it was transformed by Cambyses into a capital city, and Darius constructed a palace and apadana there.
What was Babylon’s role in the Persian Empire?
After its conquest by Cyrus in 539 BCE, Babylon became one of the administrative capitals, and its kings upheld the city’s major cults and shrines.
What led to the discovery of Persepolis?
Persepolis was rediscovered in the 17th and 18th centuries by European travelers, with major excavations beginning in the 1930s led by Ernst Herzfeld and later Iranian government efforts.
What was the significance of Persepolis in the Achaemenid period?
Persepolis was a center of power, the capital of the Persian Empire under Darius, known for its grand architecture and elaborate ceremonies.
What is the Apadana, and what was its purpose?
The Apadana was the largest building in Persepolis, meant as a reception hall for kings. It featured monumental staircases and reliefs designed to impress and terrify commoners and guests.
How does the design of the Treasury at Persepolis symbolize Persian power?
The Treasury’s large size, with 99 columns and no windows, emphasized the king’s otherworldly presence and the immense wealth and adoration of Persian kings.
