Xerxes Makers Of History

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Xerxes I ruled from 485 - 465 B.C., presiding over ancient Persia's decline from mighty power to fading empire. His father Darius was defeated by the Greeks at the battle of Marathon (490 B.C.), and 10 years later Xerxes assembled a vast army to invade Greece and avenge his father's defeat. Xerxes crossed the Hellespont (now called the Dardanelles) and methodically overran Greece. He won a costly victory at Thermopylae -- the famous battle which ended with 300 Spartan warriors defying the entire Persian army in a last battle to the death -- and finally reached Athens and sacked the deserted city. But the invasion ended in disaster when the Persian navy was routed by the Greek fleet at Salamis (480 B.C.). Xerxes retreated to his palace in Persepolis, leaving behind an occupying army which was defeated by the Greeks shortly thereafter. Persia remained a formidable nation but Xerxes withdrew from active life, devoting himself to what Herodotus called "the intrigues of the harem." 15 years later Xerxes was stabbed to death, probably by his subordinate Artabanus, and was succeeded by his son Artaxerxes.

Makers of History, Xerxes by Jacob Abbott. This book is a reproduction of the original book published in 1878 and may have some imperfections such as marks or hand-written notes.

Xerxes, an important king of ancient Persia, stepped into power after his father, Darius the Great, ruling over an enormous empire that sprawled across vast lands. His reign was marked by grand ambitions and remarkable endeavors. One of the most captivating chapters of Xerxes' rule was his fervent desire to expand the Persian Empire by conquering Greece. This ambition led him to mobilize a colossal army and embark on a monumental campaign. The battles at Thermopylae and Salamis became legendary, showcasing the strength of his forces. These clashes, though showcasing the power of Persia, also revealed the challenges of overseeing such a vast realm. However, Xerxes wasn't solely a warrior-king. Beyond his military campaigns, he was a visionary who appreciated the importance of cultural growth. He devoted attention to architectural marvels, such as the opulent palace at Persepolis, displaying not just his power but also his appreciation for art and culture. Despite his triumphs, Xerxes faced setbacks and complexities in ruling his empire. His story illustrates the complexities of leadership, highlighting that even the mightiest leaders encounter obstacles along their path. Xerxes' legacy extends far beyond battles and conquests; it's a tale of ambition, resilience, and the complexities of leadership. His reign provides invaluable insights into the ambitions of rulers and the intricacies of managing a vast empire. The lessons from Xerxes' time as king resonate through history, showcasing the challenges leaders face and the decisions they must make. His story, brimming with adventure and leadership lessons, continues to captivate minds, offering a glimpse into the aspirations and struggles of a ruler navigating the complexities of an ancient empire.

A kingdom, or an empire, was regarded, in ancient days, much in the light of an estate, which the sovereign held as a species of property, and which he was to manage mainly with a view to the promotion of his own personal aggrandizement and pleasure. A king or an emperor could have more palaces, more money, and more wives than other men; and if he was of an overbearing or ambitious spirit, he could march into his neighbors' territories, and after gratifying his love of adventure with various romantic exploits, and gaining great renown by his ferocious impetuosity in battle, he could end his expedition, perhaps, by adding his neighbors' palaces, and treasures, and wives to his own.

A kingdom, or an empire, was regarded, in ancient days, much in the light of an estate, which the sovereign held as a species of property, and which he was to manage mainly with a view to the promotion of his own personal aggrandizement and pleasure. A king or an emperor could have more palaces, more money, and more wives than other men; and if he was of an overbearing or ambitious spirit, he could march into his neighbors' territories, and after gratifying his love of adventure with various romantic exploits, and gaining great renown by his ferocious impetuosity in battle, he could end his expedition, perhaps, by adding his neighbors' palaces, and treasures, and wives to his own.

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