Unit 3 Timeline

  • Persian Empire
    559 BCE

    Persian Empire

    Early persians were nomadic and they lived in southwestern Iran. They were created in 559 BCE. Consisted of over 70 ethnic groups
  • Period: 558 BCE to 530 BCE

    Cyrus the Great's Rule

    Ruled from 559–530 BCE. Extended his empire through Asia Minor, Eastern Iran, and East towards India. Known for Tolerance in his kingdom.
  • Period: 518 BCE to 486 BCE

    King Darius

    Provided the idea that the King was a class and not a religious position. Had heavy taxes on his subjects. Created a large standing military.
  • Persian War
    499 BCE

    Persian War

    A war between Greek and Persia.The wars consisted of two large Persian invasions. The main reason for the invasions appears to be the concern for the security of the western border of the Persian Empire.
  • Peloponnesian War
    431 BCE

    Peloponnesian War

    A war fought in ancient Greece between Athens and Sparta. Sparta was jealous of other powers and desired more power for itself. Athen bullied its allies and neutral cities.
  • End of the Peloponnesian War
    404 BCE

    End of the Peloponnesian War

    Athens surrenders to Sparta. The end of this war was the fall of the Athenian empire. Sparta takes over Greece and rules for many years.
  • Restoration of democracy in Athens
    403 BCE

    Restoration of democracy in Athens

    After the fall of the Thirty Tyrants, Athens restores its democratic government. This shows that the people want to return to their traditional way of ruling. It highlights the resilience of democracy.
  • Battle of Leuctra
    371 BCE

    Battle of Leuctra

    The Thebans defeat the Spartans at Leuctra, changing the balance of power in Greece. This victory weakens Sparta's control and boosts Thebes as a major city-state. It introduces new military tactics that challenge old methods.
  • Battle of Chaeronea
    338 BCE

    Battle of Chaeronea

    Philip II of Macedon defeats Athens and Thebes at the Battle of Chaeronea. This victory establishes Macedon as the leading power in Greece. It sets the stage for his son, Alexander, to expand their influence further.
  • Assassination of Philip II
    336 BCE

    Assassination of Philip II

    Philip II is assassinated, and his son, Alexander the Great, becomes king. Alexander inherits a strong kingdom ready for conquest. His rise leads to many historical changes.
  • Alexander The Great's Invasion of Persia
    334 BCE

    Alexander The Great's Invasion of Persia

    Alexander starts his campaign against Persia, winning the Battle of Granicus. His quick victories open up Asia Minor to his army. This begins a series of successful military campaigns.
  • Battle of Gaugamela
    331 BCE

    Battle of Gaugamela

    Alexander defeats Darius III of Persia at the Battle of Gaugamela. This major victory leads to the fall of the Persian Empire. It showcases Alexander's brilliant military strategies.
  • Death of Alexander the Great
    323 BCE

    Death of Alexander the Great

    Alexander dies suddenly in Babylon at a young age. His death creates a struggle for power among his generals. This leads to conflicts that divide his empire.
  • Establishment of the Maurya Empire
    322 BCE

    Establishment of the Maurya Empire

    Chandragupta Maurya unifies much of India, starting the Maurya Empire. This marks a new, powerful empire in Indian history. His rule ends a time of divided states.
  • Ashoka Becomes Emperor
    268 BCE

    Ashoka Becomes Emperor

    Ashoka, Chandragupta’s grandson, becomes emperor and embraces Buddhism. He promotes peace and moral governance during his reign. His beliefs lead to important cultural changes in India.
  • Edicts of Ashoka
    250 BCE

    Edicts of Ashoka

    Ashoka issues messages carved on pillars that promote kindness and good behavior. These edicts encourage non-violence and respect for all living things. They are an early example of a ruler teaching ethics.
  • End of the Maurya Empire
    185 BCE

    End of the Maurya Empire

    The Maurya Empire declines due to internal problems and outside pressures, leading to its fall. This results in smaller kingdoms and a more diverse political landscape. It marks a shift in Indian history.
  • Rise of the Indo-Greek Kingdom
    150 BCE

    Rise of the Indo-Greek Kingdom

    After the Maurya Empire falls, Indo-Greek kingdoms form in northwestern India. These kingdoms mix Greek and Indian cultures, especially in art and trade. They help connect different regions through cultural exchange.
  • The Kushan Empire Expands
    200

    The Kushan Empire Expands

    The Kushan Empire rises in northern India, uniting various tribes and boosting trade. The Kushans facilitate cultural exchange between India and other regions. This period sees advancements in art, religion, and commerce.
  • Rise of the Gupta Empire
    320

    Rise of the Gupta Empire

    Chandragupta I starts the Gupta Empire, leading to a time of stability and cultural growth in India. This era is known as the Golden Age of India, marked by progress in science, math, and the arts. The Gupta Empire shapes India's history significantly.