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Who were the most influential figures in ancient Middle Eastern history?

Lorayne Learmonth

When looking at the ancient history of the Middle East, it is difficult to pinpoint just a few influential figures. The region has been a hub of civilization for thousands of years, with countless leaders, thinkers, and rulers making their mark on the world.

One of the most famous figures from ancient Middle Eastern history is undoubtedly Cyrus the Great. He founded the Achaemenid Empire, which stretched from the Mediterranean to Central Asia and lasted from 550 to 330 BCE. Cyrus was known for his military prowess, as well as his innovative policies towards conquered peoples. He famously allowed the people he conquered to retain their own customs and religions, earning him a reputation as a benevolent ruler.

Another famous leader from ancient Middle Eastern history is Hammurabi, the king of Babylon who lived in the 18th century BCE. Hammurabi is most famous for creating a legal code that laid out in great detail the rules and punishments for various crimes. This code was one of the first examples of written law, and it influenced legal systems for centuries to come.

In terms of religious figures, Abraham is a key figure in both Judaism and Islam. According to tradition, he was the first person to believe in one God and taught his followers to do the same. Abraham is also known for his willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac as a test of faith.

Moving to the realm of philosophy, there are several thinkers who left a lasting mark on the ancient Middle East. One of the most notable is Zoroaster, the founder of Zoroastrianism. This religion was one of the first to teach the importance of moral behavior, and it had a significant impact on the development of later religions such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Finally, it would be remiss not to mention Cleopatra, the last pharaoh of Egypt who lived from 69 to 30 BCE. While not strictly an ancient Middle Eastern figure, she had an enormous impact on the region through her relationship with Julius Caesar and then Mark Antony. Her reign was marked by political maneuvering and intrigue, and her legacy still captivates people to this day.

Overall, the ancient Middle East was home to a diverse array of influential figures who left their mark on the world in myriad ways. While it is impossible to name them all, the figures listed above represent some of the most significant and enduring people from this rich and fascinating period of history.