The arrival of the Medes and Persians in Iran was a key moment in the country’s history. The Medes and Persians brought with them new ideas and technologies that significantly influenced its development. They became the foundation for the formation of the Persian Empire, which became one of the largest states in the world. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of the arrival of the Medes and Persians in Iran and their influence on the country’s culture and development.
The ancient history of Iran before the arrival of the Medes and Persians
Iran has a very long history, which began long before the arrival of the Medes and Persians. This history is divided into several periods.
The first settlers in Iran appeared around the 10th millennium BC. In the 4th-3rd millennium BC, Aryan tribes appeared on the territory of Iran, which later spread throughout Europe and Asia. The Indo-European tribes that arrived in Iran mixed with the local peoples, leading to the formation of Iranian ethnic groups.
In the 2nd millennium BC, the Elamite culture developed in Iran, which persisted until the arrival of the Persians. The Elamite culture had its own writing system and developed complex systems of political and social governance.
In the 7th-6th centuries BC, the Medes invaded Iran and captured the northern territories. The Medes played an important role in the development of Iranian culture, but their rule ended with the arrival of the Persians.
In the 6th century BC, the Persians arrived in Iran, subjugated the Medes, and became the rulers of northern Iran. The Persian Empire, which became a large and powerful state, retained its independence for several centuries but was defeated by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC. After that, Iran was ruled by the Romans, Parthians, Sassanids, and in the 7th century AD, Iran was conquered by the Arabs, who began the revival of Islam and the creation of a Muslim empire. The Arab Empire ruled Iran for about 200 years, after which independent states began to form here.
In the mid-18th century, Iran was engulfed in internal political conflicts, which allowed the Russian Empire and Great Britain to expand their spheres of influence in the region. In 1906, a constitutional revolution took place in Iran, establishing a constitutional monarchy and leading to a certain reduction in the influence of foreign powers in the country.
The arrival of the Medes in Iran
The Medes arrived in Iran in the 7th century BC. According to legend, their leader Feridun was elected king after defeating Zahhak, an evil demon who ruled Iran.
The Medes were one of the ancient Iranian peoples and founded a powerful state that existed until the Persian conquest in the 6th century BC. The Medes were known for their military strength and developed economy. They were masters of metallurgy and weapon making, including iron and bronze. The Medes were also involved in trade and crafts.
Under Median rule, Iran was divided into provinces, each with its own governor. The Median state was built on the principles of openness and tolerance. Myths and legends were important in Median culture, helping to preserve their history and traditions.
According to legend, the Medes were the first to use money in trade. They made coins from readily available metals and used them as a means of exchange.
The Medes are also considered one of the peoples who gave rise to Zoroastrianism, a religion that was widespread in Iran before the advent of Islam. It was based on belief in one God and moral principles.
Overall, the arrival of the Medes in Iran was an important event in the country’s history, influencing its development and culture. The Medes preserved and developed the rich Iranian culture and arts, including architecture, poetry, and literature. They also contributed to the development of trade and agriculture in Iran.
Throughout their history, the Medes experienced conflicts with neighboring states, including Lydia and Mesopotamia. During the reign of the Lydian king Croesus, the Medes were conquered and became his vassals. However, after Croesus’ death, the Median king Astyages was able to regain his independence.
In the 6th century BC, the Median state was conquered by the Persians under the leadership of Cyrus II. This led to the creation of the Persian Empire and changes in the culture and politics of Iran.
Overall, the arrival of the Medes in Iran was an important event in the country’s history, which took place more than 2,500 years ago. This period was marked by the development of the economy, culture, and military power of the Medes, who preserved and developed Iranian culture and traditions.
The arrival of the Persians in Iran
The Persians were one of the peoples who inhabited central Iran in ancient times. However, they became more significant after they conquered the Median Empire under the leadership of Cyrus II and founded the Persian Empire. This happened in the 6th century BC.
The Persians made a significant contribution to the development of Iran. They introduced a new form of government based on a state apparatus and centralized administration. They also supported and developed art, science, and culture.
The Persian Empire experienced conflicts with various peoples, including the Greeks and Macedonians. Despite this, it was one of the largest empires of its time and was known for its power and wealth.
In the 4th century BC, the Persian Empire faced its greatest threat from the empire of Alexander the Great, who conquered much of Iran and destroyed the Persian capital of Persepolis. After Alexander’s death, Iran became part of the Diadochi states and was ruled by various rulers.
Overall, the arrival of the Persians in Iran was an important event in the country’s history, which took place more than 2,500 years ago. This period was marked by the development of Iran’s economy, culture, and political system, which had an impact on the country’s further development.
The influence of the Medes and Persians on Iran
The arrival of the Medes and Persians had a great influence on the development of Iran in ancient times. In particular, these two peoples made a great contribution to the political formation and culture of Iran.
The Medes are considered the first people to establish a state on the territory of Iran. They were the first to establish a certain form of government and organize a military force to defend their state. They also developed crafts, trade, and culture.
The Persians became the next great people of Iran. They created one of the most famous states of antiquity – the Persian Empire. The Persians introduced a centralized form of government and were the first to develop a constitution and other laws for their state. They also contributed to the development of science, art, and literature. One of the most famous achievements of Persian culture is the Book of Kings, which contains a description of the history of Iran from the creation of the world to the advent of Islam.
In addition, the Persians made a significant contribution to the development of art and architecture. They built magnificent palaces, mosques, and railways. Persian architecture has its own unique features, which the heirs of Persian culture have preserved to this day.
All these contributions of the Medes and Persians to the development of Iran have influenced not only the history of Iran itself, but also its entire culture and society.
