Cyrus Captures Sardis and Lydia Falls

Cyrus the Great's military campaign against King Croesus of Lydia marked a pivotal moment in the expansion of the Persian Empire. Croesus, seeking to capitalize on the shifting political landscape, advanced into territories that had previously belonged to the Medes in Asia Minor. In response, Cyrus launched a counteroffensive that not only repelled Croesus' forces but also resulted in the capture of Sardis, the capital of Lydia. This military success effectively led to the downfall of the Lydian Kingdom, which had been a significant power in the region. Following the conquest, Cyrus appointed Pactyes to oversee tribute collection in Lydia. However, this arrangement was short-lived as Pactyes instigated a rebellion against Persian rule soon after Cyrus departed. To quell the uprising, Cyrus dispatched the Median general Mazares to restore order. Mazares successfully captured Pactyes, and following his death, Harpagus continued the campaign to suppress the remaining cities involved in the revolt. The process of subjugating Lydia took approximately four years, solidifying Persian control over the region and expanding its influence further into Asia Minor.