The Persian Roots of World Civilization (English Edition)

Persia has been influencing world cultures since it emerged as the heir of Mesopotamia and the world's first empire under Cyrus the Great. It preserved and passed on the wisdom of Babylonia and Sumeria while enriching it with an already ancient tradition of its own. That first empire establishied institutions and traditions that would be followed by civilizations such as Rome, later European countries, and even America. Cyrus set a pattern for religious toleralnce and Darius proclaimed the first code of human rights. Since that day there has never been a time when there was not a Persia and each successive administration has made its own contributions in administration, philosophy, medicine, science, art, architecture, science, the culinary arts, dance, music, and many other fields. The influence of Persian Empire is evident in the vast territory that was included within the borders of the empire.but also outside the empire with cultures such as China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, the part of India that was never part of Persia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, coastal Africa, and many parts of Europe. Countries that were part of the empire include Georgia, Armenia, Afghanistan, Egupt, and all of southwest and central Asia. Persian trade ranged from Siberia to Africa and from Europe to the China Sea. The Silk Route and the Spice Route were dominated by Persians and other Iranians such as Sogdians and Scythians. Their influence is especially strong in the area of religious teachings. Persian religion influenced the development of the great monotheistic religions -- Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It also was critical to the development of Buddhism and other religions. Its influence is evident in mythology and can especially be seen in the legends of the Round Table and the Holy Grail as well as in the legend of Shambhala. Persian scientists dominated the golden age of Islam and were prominent in the development of European science, medicine, and mathematics well into the Renaissance. Persian influence in Spain led to the development of the western courtly traditions. Other Persian influences led to the development of mounted knights, and various styles of art, dance, and music. But despite the widespread influence of Persia over millenia and across continents, it is largely ignored or forgotten. The purpose of this book is to provide a reminder of our world heritage.