Cyrus the Great

Cyrus the Great (lived c. 600—530 BC, reigned 550—530 BC) was the founder and king of the Achaemenid Persian Empire. He conquered most of West Asia and much of Central Asia to create the world’s first superpower. Cyrus was known for respecting the customs and religious traditions of the people he conquered. He was especially revered by the Jews for authorizing their return to the former Kingdom of Judah. Cyrus is mentioned in the Book of Isaiah as anointed by the God of Israel for this task. He is the only non-Jewish figure to be so honored.