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559 BCE
Persian Empire
Early persians were nomadic and they lived in southwestern Iran. They were created in 559 BCE. Consisted of over 70 ethnic groups -
Period: 558 BCE to 530 BCE
Cyrus the Great's Rule
Ruled from 559–530 BCE. Extended his empire through Asia Minor, Eastern Iran, and East towards India. Known for Tolerance in his kingdom. -
Period: 518 BCE to 486 BCE
King Darius
Provided the idea that the King was a class and not a religious position. Had heavy taxes on his subjects. Created a large standing military. -
499 BCE
Persian War
A war between Greek and Persia.The wars consisted of two large Persian invasions. The main reason for the invasions appears to be the concern for the security of the western border of the Persian Empire. -
431 BCE
Peloponnesian War
A war fought in ancient Greece between Athens and Sparta. Sparta was jealous of other powers and desired more power for itself. Athen bullied its allies and neutral cities. -
404 BCE
End of the Peloponnesian War
Athens surrenders to Sparta. The end of this war was the fall of the Athenian empire. Sparta takes over Greece and rules for many years. -
403 BCE
Restoration of democracy in Athens
After the fall of the Thirty Tyrants, Athens restores its democratic government. This shows that the people want to return to their traditional way of ruling. It highlights the resilience of democracy. -
371 BCE
Battle of Leuctra
The Thebans defeat the Spartans at Leuctra, changing the balance of power in Greece. This victory weakens Sparta's control and boosts Thebes as a major city-state. It introduces new military tactics that challenge old methods. -
338 BCE
Battle of Chaeronea
Philip II of Macedon defeats Athens and Thebes at the Battle of Chaeronea. This victory establishes Macedon as the leading power in Greece. It sets the stage for his son, Alexander, to expand their influence further. -
336 BCE
Assassination of Philip II
Philip II is assassinated, and his son, Alexander the Great, becomes king. Alexander inherits a strong kingdom ready for conquest. His rise leads to many historical changes. -
334 BCE
Alexander The Great's Invasion of Persia
Alexander starts his campaign against Persia, winning the Battle of Granicus. His quick victories open up Asia Minor to his army. This begins a series of successful military campaigns. -
331 BCE
Battle of Gaugamela
Alexander defeats Darius III of Persia at the Battle of Gaugamela. This major victory leads to the fall of the Persian Empire. It showcases Alexander's brilliant military strategies. -
323 BCE
Death of Alexander the Great
Alexander dies suddenly in Babylon at a young age. His death creates a struggle for power among his generals. This leads to conflicts that divide his empire. -
322 BCE
Establishment of the Maurya Empire
Chandragupta Maurya unifies much of India, starting the Maurya Empire. This marks a new, powerful empire in Indian history. His rule ends a time of divided states. -
268 BCE
Ashoka Becomes Emperor
Ashoka, Chandragupta’s grandson, becomes emperor and embraces Buddhism. He promotes peace and moral governance during his reign. His beliefs lead to important cultural changes in India. -
250 BCE
Edicts of Ashoka
Ashoka issues messages carved on pillars that promote kindness and good behavior. These edicts encourage non-violence and respect for all living things. They are an early example of a ruler teaching ethics. -
185 BCE
End of the Maurya Empire
The Maurya Empire declines due to internal problems and outside pressures, leading to its fall. This results in smaller kingdoms and a more diverse political landscape. It marks a shift in Indian history. -
150 BCE
Rise of the Indo-Greek Kingdom
After the Maurya Empire falls, Indo-Greek kingdoms form in northwestern India. These kingdoms mix Greek and Indian cultures, especially in art and trade. They help connect different regions through cultural exchange. -
200
The Kushan Empire Expands
The Kushan Empire rises in northern India, uniting various tribes and boosting trade. The Kushans facilitate cultural exchange between India and other regions. This period sees advancements in art, religion, and commerce. -
320
Rise of the Gupta Empire
Chandragupta I starts the Gupta Empire, leading to a time of stability and cultural growth in India. This era is known as the Golden Age of India, marked by progress in science, math, and the arts. The Gupta Empire shapes India's history significantly.