Ardashir I, grandson of the priest Sasan, defeated Artabanus V (not IV) at the Battle of Hormozdgan, founding the Sassanid dynasty. He claimed descent from the Achaemenids and titled himself "Shahanshah of Iran"—the first use of this title.
Fun Facts
The name "Sassanid" comes from Sasan, a priest at the temple of Anahita in Istakhr (Fars). Ardashir carved his rock relief at Naqsh-e Rostam showing Ahura Mazda handing him the ring of kingship. The Sassanids ruled for 427 years (224-651 CE) as the main rival of the Roman Empire.
Related Events
Foundation of Achaemenid Empire
Cyrus II (Cyrus the Great) rebelled against Astyages, the Median king and his maternal grandfather, winning the Battle of Pasargadae (550 BCE). Uniting Persians and Medes, he founded the Achaemenid Empire—history's largest empire to that date, spanning from the Indus to the Aegean.
Fall of Babylon to Persian Army
On the 16th of Tishri (around 15-20 Mehr), Persian forces under Gobryas (Ugbaru) entered Babylon without battle. Nabonidus, the last Babylonian king, fled, and the city surrendered peacefully. This peaceful conquest marked a turning point in world history.
Cyrus the Great Day (Entry into Babylon)
According to the Nabonidus Chronicle, on the 3rd of Arahsamnu (7 Aban), Cyrus the Great personally entered Babylon, 17 days after the city fell to Persian forces. The chronicle states: 'Green branches were spread before him' and the people welcomed him magnificently. Cyrus sent greetings of peace and friendship to all cities.
Conquest of Egypt by Cambyses II
Cambyses II defeated Pharaoh Psamtik III at the Battle of Pelusium, making Egypt the 27th Achaemenid satrapy. He adopted the title of Pharaoh and took the Egyptian name "Mesuti-Ra" (Born of Ra).