The Intriguing Coup of Darius I: A Tale of Power and Deception
The coup d’état by Darius I is a cracking episode in ancient Persian history. Here’s a brief overview:
Background
Cyrus the Great founded the Achaemenid Empire and was succeeded by his son Cambyses II.
Cambyses II expanded the empire by conquering Egypt but faced a right old mess internally.
The Coup
Bardiya, also known as Smerdis, was Cambyses’ brother. Darius I secretly did away with Cambyses. According to Darius, Cambyses had already bumped off Bardiya before his own demise.
A Magian named Gaumâta impersonated Bardiya and claimed the throne, leading to widespread support and a right kerfuffle against Darius I.
Darius’ Role
Darius, with the backing of seven noble Persian families, orchestrated a coup to overthrow Gaumâta. Darius, with the support of Atossa (daughter of Cyrus the Great and widow of Cambyses) and the seven noble Persian families, orchestrated a coup to overthrow Bardiya and Gaumâta.
Darius and his co-conspirators did Gaumâta in September 522 BCE at a fortress in Media. Darius and his co-conspirators did Gaumâta in and exiled Bardiya in September 522 BCE at a fortress in Media.
Aftermath
Darius ascended the throne and solidified his rule by quelling various revolts and reorganising the empire.
His reign marked significant administrative, economic, and military advancements, expanding the empire to its greatest extent.
This coup is detailed in the Behistun Inscription, where Darius narrates his rise to power and the legitimacy of his rule.
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