In this program we'll take a look at the illustrious life of the great Persian King of Kings, Darius I, also known as Darius the Great.  Regarded by many as the most powerful ruler of the Achaemenid Dynasty of ancient Iran, Darius I is also amongst its most controversial.  We'll dive deeper into the life of great king, the contentious debate about his rise to power, and ultimately examine the words of Darius himself about his these and other aspects of his life and beliefs.

Contents:

00:00  Introduction and Historical Context
03:37  Early Life of Darius
05:14  Rise to Power as told in the Behistun Inscription
16:55  Lineage and Family of Darius
18:10  Rebellions and Troubles of 522 BC
20:43  Architect of an Empire: Satrapies, Reforms, Roads and Canals
25:19  Darius the Builder: Susa and Persepolis
33:50  Expansion of the Achaemenid Empire
35:25  The Ionian Revolt
37:17  Invasion of Greece and the Battle of Marathon
43:21  Thank You and Patrons

Special thanks to Farya Faraji for the music:

"Achaemenes"
"Shirin and Khosrow"
"The Riding Angaros"
"Memory of Cyrus"
"Spantodhata's Warning"
"The Apadana's Shadow"
"Battle of Cunaxa"
"Hyrcanian Lullaby"
"Immortals"
"Apranik's Charge"
"March of Achaemenes"

Check out more of his work that spans across many countries, cultures and time periods:
https://www.youtube.com/@faryafaraji

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