differences between Assyria empire and persian empire
and similarties
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Read carefully and take notes.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neo-Assyrian_Empire
http://www.localhistories.org/persians.html
The Assyrian Empire and the Persian Empire were two major ancient empires that existed in different time periods and regions. To understand the differences between them, we need to examine their origins, territorial extent, governing systems, cultural practices, military strategies, and legacies. Let's explore:
1. Origins:
- Assyrian Empire: The Assyrians emerged as a significant power in the ancient Near East around the 25th century BCE. Their empire reached its peak during the 9th to 7th centuries BCE.
- Persian Empire: The Persian Empire, also known as the Achaemenid Empire, was founded by Cyrus the Great in the 6th century BCE. It lasted until the conquest by Alexander the Great in 330 BCE.
2. Territorial Extent:
- Assyrian Empire: At its height, the Assyrian Empire encompassed Mesopotamia, parts of modern-day Iraq, Syria, and Egypt.
- Persian Empire: The Persian Empire was larger and more extensive, stretching from Egypt and Anatolia in the west to parts of India and Central Asia in the east. It was the most extensive empire of its time.
3. Governing Systems:
- Assyrian Empire: The Assyrians practiced a centralized and autocratic form of government, with a king as the absolute ruler. They emphasized military conquest and imposed harsh rule over their subjects.
- Persian Empire: The Persian Empire had a more decentralized governing system. Cyrus the Great is known for his benevolence towards conquered peoples, allowing them to keep their local customs and religions. The empire was divided into provinces called satrapies, each ruled by a satrap (governor).
4. Cultural Practices:
- Assyrian Empire: The Assyrians had a warlike and militaristic society. They were known for their brutal methods of warfare and their architectural achievements, such as the famous city of Nineveh and the palace of Ashurbanipal, which housed the royal library.
- Persian Empire: The Persians had a diverse and expansive empire that fostered cultural exchange and trade. They encouraged their subjects to practice their own religions and focused on the development of grand cities, such as Persepolis, with impressive buildings and monuments.
5. Military Strategies:
- Assyrian Empire: The Assyrians were renowned for their highly organized and formidable military. They employed advanced siege tactics, cavalry, and a well-disciplined infantry to conquer and control vast territories.
- Persian Empire: The Persians were skilled in diplomacy and warfare. They adopted a strategy of incorporating defeated peoples into their empire while maintaining a powerful core Persian army. They also employed a network of roads called the Royal Road, enabling fast communication and the movement of troops.
6. Legacies:
- Assyrian Empire: The Assyrians left lasting architectural and artistic legacies, exemplified in their grand palaces and sculptures. They also contributed to the development of cuneiform writing.
- Persian Empire: The Persian Empire's legacy lies in its tolerance towards different cultures and religions, which influenced later empires, including the Hellenistic and Islamic civilizations.
To summarize, the Assyrian Empire and the Persian Empire differed in terms of origins, territorial extent, governing systems, cultural practices, military strategies, and legacies. Understanding these differences enhances our knowledge of ancient history and the diverse civilizations that shaped our world.