Cyrus the Great

Cyrus the Great was the founder of the Persian Empire. He was born around 600 BC in Persia, which is now Iran. He built the largest empire the world had ever seen at that time. He was known for treating conquered peoples with respect and kindness.

Building an Empire

Cyrus united the Persian and Median tribes and then conquered many other kingdoms. He defeated the powerful Babylonian Empire in 539 BC. His empire stretched from the Mediterranean Sea to India. He ruled over many different peoples and cultures.

A Kind Conqueror

Unlike many rulers of his time, Cyrus was known for being fair. He freed the Jewish people from captivity in Babylon. He allowed conquered peoples to keep their religions and customs. The Cyrus Cylinder, a clay document from his time, is sometimes called the first charter of human rights.

Fun Facts

• Cyrus the Great freed the Jewish people from captivity in Babylon.
• The Cyrus Cylinder is sometimes called the first declaration of human rights.
• His empire was the largest the world had ever seen at that time.

Did You Know?

Cyrus the Great is mentioned in the Bible as the king who let the Jewish people return home to rebuild their temple in Jerusalem.