- Persians: Zoroastrianism, a monotheistic religion emphasizing a cosmic struggle between good and evil
- Assyrians and Babylonians: Polytheistic religions with a pantheon of gods and goddesses
Government:
- Persians: Decentralized empire, with local satraps governing provinces under the central authority of the Great King
- Assyrians and Babylonians: Centralized empires with a strong bureaucracy and a powerful ruler at the center
Military:
- Persians: Known for their elite cavalry, the Immortals, and their use of light chariots and archers
- Assyrians and Babylonians: Relied on heavy infantry, chariots, and siege engines
Art and Architecture:
- Persians: Influenced by Mesopotamian and Egyptian art but developed a unique style characterized by intricate reliefs, glazed tiles, and columns
- Assyrians and Babylonians: Known for their impressive architecture, including ziggurats, temples, and palaces with colossal sculptures and reliefs
Social Structure:
- Persians: Hierarchical system with a nobility, priesthood, military class, and commoners
- Assyrians and Babylonians: Similar social hierarchy but with a greater emphasis on the power of the king and the ruling elite
Language and Writing:
- Persians: Old Persian, written in cuneiform script, later replaced by Pahlavi
- Assyrians: Akkadian, written in cuneiform script
- Babylonians: Babylonian, a form of Akkadian, written in cuneiform script
Legacy:
- Persians: Established a vast empire that influenced subsequent civilizations, leaving a lasting legacy in terms of art, architecture, religion, and political systems
- Assyrians and Babylonians: Significant contributors to ancient Near Eastern civilization, known for their scientific advancements, mathematics, astronomy, and cultural achievements
