Phraortes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Phraortes |
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A relief of Phraortes at the Behistun Inscription
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| King of the Medes | |
| Reign | 678 – 625 BCE |
| Predecessor | Deioces |
| Successor | Cyaxares |
| Died | 625 BCE |
| Dynasty | Median dynasty |
| Father | Deioces |
| Religion | Ancient Iranian religion |
Phraortes was the second king of the Median kingdom. He was the son of Deioces, who was the first Median king.
Like his father, Phraortes fought against the powerful Assyrian Empire. However, he was defeated and killed by the Assyrian king, likely Ashurbanipal.
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Life and Rule of Phraortes
Most of what we know about Phraortes comes from the ancient Greek historian Herodotus. According to Herodotus, Phraortes was the son of King Deioces.
Phraortes managed to unite all the different Median tribes. He brought them together to form a single, stronger state.
Expanding the Median Kingdom
Phraortes also conquered other groups of people. He brought the Persians and Parthians under Median control. He also ruled over other nations in ancient Iran.
This made the Median kingdom much larger and more powerful.
How Long Did Phraortes Rule?
Herodotus states that Phraortes ruled for 22 years. This would be from about 675 BC to 653 BC.
However, some historians believe he ruled for a longer time. They suggest his reign lasted 53 years, from around 678 BC to 625 BC.
Phraortes and Kashtariti
Some scholars think that Phraortes might be the same person as Kashtariti. Kashtariti was a powerful leader in Media mentioned in other ancient texts.
However, not all historians agree with this idea. There is still some debate about it.
Who Succeeded Phraortes?
After Phraortes died, his son Cyaxares became the next king. Cyaxares would go on to lead the Medes to even greater power.
