Darius I (King)

Darius I, also known as Darius the Great, was the third king of the Achaemenid Empire, ruling from 522 to 486 BCE. He is known for his administrative genius, expanding the empire to its greatest extent, and establishing a system of provinces called satrapies, each governed by a satrap. Darius also initiated major construction projects, including the famous Persepolis, and improved trade routes, such as the Royal Road. His reign is marked by significant developments in infrastructure, governance, and cultural integration, solidifying the empire’s power and influence in the ancient world.