Persia Flashcards
What were provinces?
Like states
There was a governor for each province who collected taxes and administered Persian Code of Laws
The provinces were connected by sophisticated road systems
Persia was successful because…
Treated those they conquered well
Had provinces
Has improved road systems
How were Persian road systems “sophisticated”?
They had relay stations with fresh horses along main roads
Royal messengers could get 1500 miles in 10 days
The fall of Persia was due to…
They attempted to conquer Greece and failed
Fell to Alexander the Great
How long did Persia last?
Only about two centuries
What is Zoroastrianism?
Official state religion of ancient Persia
Founded by Zarathustra (Zorcaster) in 7th century B.C.
Dualism
Two opposing gods • Ahura Mazda (Ormazad): god of goodness, wisdom, and truth • Ahriman: the spirit of evil • engaged in enduring battle that Ahura Mazda will win • Those who follow Ahura Mazda will be rewarded in death • those who follow Ahriman will be punished
Replaced by Islam in 7th century A.D.
What are the five pillars of Islam?
Recognizing and submitting to Allah
Turn to holy city, Mecca, and pray five times a day
Perform acts of charity
Fasting during holy month Ramadan
One pilgrimage to Mecca in their life
Where did Islam originate?
A part of Saudi Arabia in 6th century A.D.
What is Islam?
Founded by Muhammad
Monotheistic
Allah
What are caliphs?
Muhammad’s closest advisors
What does Allah mean?
“The God” in Arabic