The Iranian Plateau has an extensive history dating back to 100,000 BCE! Today, Persia is known as the country of Iran, but long ago, Persia was once home to various nomadic tribes. It saw the rise of many empires and dynasties. The Assyrians fell to the Medians, who paved the way for the emergence of the Achaemenid Empire, one of the greatest empires in ancient history. 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. The rise of the Achaemenid Empire is one of the most influential periods in world history. With Cyrus the Great and Darius I, the empire rose to unrivaled heights, gathering vast wealth and territories. Learn how this great empire declined and the role Alexander the Great played in it. This book offers an enthralling insight into the exciting and often bloody history of ancient Persia and the Persian Empire. By reading 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 And so much more!