Cyrus II the Great

Cyrus inherited rule in Anshan, defeated the Median king Astyages, conquered Lydia, and created an empire across much of western Asia. In 539 BC his forces captured Babylon. His imperial policy often retained local institutions and cults. Cyrus died on campaign around 530 BC.

Cyrus transformed Persia into the dominant power of the ancient Near East. His conquest of Babylon ended Neo-Babylonian rule and created the political conditions for the restoration of the Jewish community in Jerusalem.

c. 550 BC - Conquest of Media c. 547/546 BC - Conquest of Lydia 539 BC - Babylon captured 538 BC - Jewish return and Temple restoration begin under Persian authority 530 BC - Cyrus dies

Founded and developed the royal center at Pasargadae.

Died around 530 BC on campaign. His monumental tomb survives at Pasargadae.

Cyrus is presented as the ruler through whom the Babylonian captivity ended. Isaiah calls him the LORD's anointed, while Ezra and Chronicles associate him with authorization to rebuild the Temple.