People > Cyaxares II

Cyaxares II

Background

Cyaxares II is a historical figure who is mentioned in ancient sources, particularly in relation to the Median Empire and its rulers. However, the information available about Cyaxares II is limited, and there is some uncertainty and debate among historians regarding his identity and reign. Here is a summary based on the available historical sources. Cyaxares II is believed to have been a king of the Median Empire, an ancient Iranian civilization that played a significant role in the Near East during the 7th and 6th centuries BCE. He is sometimes referred to as Astyages, particularly in Greek sources such as Herodotus.

Cyaxares II is thought to have succeeded his father, Astyages, as king of the Medes. His reign occurred during a period of significant geopolitical changes in the Near East, including the rise of the Persian Empire under Cyrus the Great. Cyaxares II is mentioned in ancient sources as having engaged in conflicts with Cyrus the Great of Persia. According to Herodotus, Cyaxares II allied with Babylon against Persia, leading to the eventual downfall of the Neo-Babylonian Empire.

End of the Median Empire

The Median Empire was eventually conquered by Cyrus the Great of Persia, who defeated Cyaxares II in battle. This marked the end of the Median Empire and the beginning of the Achaemenid Persian Empire, which would go on to dominate the Near East. Information about Cyaxares II is primarily derived from ancient Greek historians such as Herodotus, as well as Babylonian and Persian sources. These sources may contain biases and inaccuracies, making it challenging to construct a complete and accurate picture of Cyaxares II's reign.

Identity Debate:

Some historians equate Cyaxares II with Astyages, suggesting that they are two names for the same ruler. Others argue that they were separate individuals, with Cyaxares II possibly being a later ruler of the Median Empire after Astyages. Cyaxares II played a significant role in the history of the Near East, particularly in the context of the conflicts between the Medes, Babylonians, and Persians. His reign and the fall of the Median Empire paved the way for the rise of the Persian Empire under Cyrus the Great.

In summary, Cyaxares II is believed to have been a king of the Median Empire who ruled during a period of significant geopolitical changes in the Near East. His reign, conflict with Persia, and the conquest of the Median Empire by Cyrus the Great are mentioned in ancient sources, although there is some debate and uncertainty among historians regarding his identity and historical significance.