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This Day In History: October 29, 539 B.C.E.

CyrusOn October 29, 539 B.C.E., Cyrus the Great, King of Persia, entered the city of Babylon and proclaimed himself “King of Babylon, King of Sumer and Akkad, King of the four corners of the world.” He came bearing the Cyrus Cylinder, the first Charter of Human Rights, which he placed under the walls of Babylon.

Cyrus was not your typical conqueror. The vast Persian Empire he created was a primitive form of federalism where each state had absolute autonomy. Cultural differences were respected and Cyrus did not interfere with local customs, religions, laws and dialects. Considering his territory spanned three continents and included 25 nations, Cyrus proved he was not only benevolent, but also wise.

Unlike many of the rulers that came before (and after) him, Cyrus set very high standards fro himself. He believed that no man was fit to be king unless he was the most capable among those he intended to rule. When his men fought, he fought alongside them. He was reasonable, intelligent, and felt no compulsion to wrap himself in a cloak of majesty.

The Persians called him “Father.” The Jews, who were exiled in Babylon until Cyrus came to town and freed them, praised him as “The Lord’s anointed.” Even the Greeks, the ancient enemies of the Persians, regarded Cyrus as “A worthy ruler and lawgiver.”

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