Which statement BEST describes how rulers such as Cyrus the Great and Darius were able to rule the diverse and expansive Persian (Achaemenid) Empire of the 500s and 400s BCE?

A. Persia permitted Christian groups to worship freely.
B. Persian military forces drafted all men under 30 into service.
C. Persia allowed conquered areas to rule themselves on local matters.
D. Persian armies crushed all possible resistance to prevent future rebellions.

Cyrus the Great and Darius I ruled the Persian Empire effectively by allowing tolerance of local cultures, decentralizing administration through satrapies, and maintaining a powerful military for stability. Their policies of cultural leniency fostered loyalty and cooperation among diverse populations. This approach enabled the Persian Empire to thrive and control a vast territory.

Explanation:

Persian Rulers and Their Approach to Governance

The rulers of the Achaemenid Empire, notably Cyrus the Great and Darius I, were able to effectively manage a vast and diverse territory in the 500s and 400s BCE by implementing several key strategies:

Tolerance of Local Cultures: The Persian kings practiced a policy of tolerance towards the cultures and religions of the conquered peoples. They allowed local customs, languages, and practices to flourish, which fostered a sense of loyalty among their subjects. For example, Cyrus the Great is known for allowing the exiled Jews to return to Jerusalem and practice their religion freely.
Decentralized Administration: Darius I reorganized the empire into twenty districts, known as satrapies, each governed by a satrap (governor). This system allowed local governance while maintaining oversight from the central authority, thus enabling efficient administration of a sprawling empire.
Military Power and Stability: Although Persian rule was largely based on tolerance, the kings maintained powerful military forces to suppress any threats. The presence of a strong military served as a deterrent against rebellion, ensuring stability in the vast empire.

By combining these strategies, the Persian rulers successfully maintained control over one of the largest empires in history, managing to keep diverse populations under a unified administration.

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