Ep 9. The Persians

Engineering an Empire season 1 episode 9, titled The Persians, is a historical documentary that delves into the Persian Empire's ancient engineering abilities and how they achieved greatness as a civilization. The episode follows the rise and fall of the Persian Empire, starting with its earliest beginnings under the Achaemenid Dynasty, spanning from 550 BC to 330 BC.

The Persian civilization is renowned for its impressive engineering feats, such as the creation of the world-famous Persian Royal Road, stretching over 1,500 miles, connecting the empire's most distant outposts. Additionally, the engineering marvels of the Persian Empire include the creation of an intricate irrigation system for agriculture, the massive construction of palaces, tombs, and fire temples, and the creation of one of the world's largest cities, Persepolis.

The episode starts by tracing the rise of Cyrus the Great, who conquered the neighboring Median and Lydian empires, expanding the borders of the Persian Empire and creating a vast and diverse kingdom. His successors, such as Darius the Great, continued his legacy and expanded the empire, including the construction of magnificent buildings like the famous Apadana Palace at Persepolis.

The narrator takes the viewer on a journey through the ancient ruins of the Persian capital, Persepolis, and examines the stunning architecture and engineering techniques involved in its construction, including the complex water systems that fed fountains and pools throughout the city.

The episode features interviews with historians and experts who explain the significant influence of the Persian Empire on Western civilization, including their advancements in astronomy and mathematics. Specifically, it highlights the work of Persian mathematician Al-Khwarizmi, whose work on algebra influenced the development of modern mathematics.

Moreover, the episode explores the construction of the Persian Royal Road, which utilized ingenious engineering techniques to create a smooth and efficient transport system. The road was equipped with strategically placed wells and inns at 20-mile intervals to allow travelers to rest overnight and refresh themselves and their animals.

One of the most impressive achievements of the Persian Empire was the creation of the Behistun Inscription. An enormous carving on a mountain face, this inscription details the Persian Empire's history and the acts of King Darius the Great, making it one of the most important historical artifacts of the ancient world.

The episode also explores the Persian Empire's decline and eventual fall to Alexander the Great, who invaded Persia in 330 BC. The narrator explains the impact of Greek culture on the Persian Empire and how their mutual exchange of ideas shaped both civilizations.

In conclusion, the Engineering an Empire season 1 episode 9: The Persians, is an informative and captivating documentary that provides an in-depth look into the ancient engineering abilities of the Persian Empire. It chronicles how they created an empire that still influences modern times, technology, and culture.