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Persian power over Egypt from "summary" of The Histories by Herodotus
The Persian Empire dominated Egypt in the late 6th century BC, overthrowing the Egyptian Pharaohs and ruling the country for a period of over two centuries. During this time, the Persian's influence had a lasting impact on Egypt, leaving a legacy that still exists today.- For over 200 years, the Persians continued their rule over Egypt in peace until Alexander the Great arrived in 332 BC. Yet despite his short reign, Alexander still left behind traces of Greek influence which rhetoricized the way Egyptians viewed culture and religion.
- For a long while, the Persian Empire had great stronghold over Egypt’s wealth and politics; though this ultimately came to an end due to the military prowess of Alexander’s Macedonian army.
- In the beforetime, there was an empire that had grown powerful and large spanning two continents – it extended from Greece to Modern-Day Egypt. This mighty power of Persia took control of the Egyptian throne starting when Cambyses II inherited the Egyptian kingship in 525 BC.
- Cambyses' takeover of the Egyptian kingdom was smooth and instantaneous – he took command of Egypt's vital resources and suppressed any sign of rebellion within the country. As a result of his conquest, Persian gods were brought into the culture of ancient Egypt for the first time in history.
- Throughout their tenure as rulers of Egypt, the Persians introduced their traditions and customs while at the same time giving concessions to existing customs, traditions. This combination of cultures mixed together made both countries stronger nations ultimately recognizing a harmonious relationship between the two empires.
