Two manuscripts in one book: The Persians: An Enthralling Guide to the History of Persia and the Persian Empire Cyrus the Great: The Enthralling Life of the Father of the Persian Empire Throughout history, Persia made great contributions to the language and culture of the region. Nomadic movements and changing empires meant it was a hub of continuous cultural exploration and development. The Persians established and spread new ways of government, administration, and currency. The region is also the birthplace of Zoroastrianism and new ways of thinking and art. In the first part of this book, you will discover the following: How the Assyrian Empire gave rise to the Medians and then the Achaemenid dynasty The establishment of the Persian Empire by Cyrus the Great and his many expeditions, which helped build the greatest empire of its time The period of Achaemenid rule over Persia, stretching from Cambyses II to Darius III The Achaemenid takeover of Lydia, Egypt, the Indus Valley, Babylonia, and Asia Minor Achaemenid conflicts with Greece, which ultimately led to the empire's downfall at the hands of Alexander the Great The political, cultural, religious, and social influence of the Achaemenid Empire in and around ancient Persia Cyrus the Great was a remarkable man who became a legend in his own lifetime. The greatest testament to his good character and great achievements came to us via Persia's enemies: the Greeks. It is said he served as an inspiration to Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar. Cyrus gained such hero status that his heritage was still claimed by the last shahs of Iran in the 20th century CE. In the second part of this book, you will discover more about the following: The life of Cyrus the Great: both as a monarch and as a man. A dip into the milieu of cultures, influences, and worldviews of Cyrus's time Cyrus's multi-faceted Achaemenid Empire Mythology and religions of the era How Cyrus achieved harmony between conquerors and conquered The fall of the splendid city of Babylon A unique artifact that ties in with modern-day human rights Cyrus the Great's legacy And so much more!