Herodotus' Words: Cambyses' Maddness

The Histories by Herodotus painted the most fascinating, colorful and BS stories considering his work meant to be non-fiction. Herodotus diagnosed Cambyses with madness and in his work Histories, he wrote events which supported his claim.

Cambyses in Vigor Boucquet's
The judgement of Cambyses

10 Things to Know About Catalan Economy of the 18th Century

From the devastation of the Spanish Succession War that the 18th century introduced, Catalonia emerged with a flourishing economy that exploited the reforms of Spain’s new Bourbon Kings. Here are 10 things to know about Catalonia's economic revival during that century:

Economic Miracle of Catalonia in the 18th Century

After suffering more than a decade of war and devastation in its wake, the people of Catalonia dreaded their future in the hands of their victor, King Felipe V (Philip V) of Spain. Either they continue to fight to the very end or make the best out of a bad situation. Their decision dictated their fate in their future in the economic life of Spain.

Herodotus' Words: Cambyses II in Egypt

The Histories by Herodotus painted the most fascinating, colorful and BS stories considering his work meant to be non-fiction. Herodotus’ account of Cambyses invasion of Egypt was already filled with gossip and stories, but his stay in Egypt continued this flair.

Image of Cambyses with prisoners

Herodotus' Words: Cambyses II and His Conquest of Egypt

The Histories by Herodotus painted the most fascinating, colorful and BS stories considering his work meant to be non-fiction. Nevertheless, it continued to serve as a source for many historical events and personalities, from Greeks, Scythians, and Persians albeit taking them with a handful of salt. His description of the reign of Cambyses certainly tells numerous interesting stories.

Cambyses II and his retinue in Egypt in a scene by Jean-Adrien Guignet

Darius the Great - the Zenith of Persian Empire

“Darius the King says: Ahuramazda, the greatest of the gods, created me, made me king, bestowed upon me this kingdom, great, possessed of good horses, possessed of good men.” 

– Darius, Palace foundation inscription

Cambyses II and His Controversial Conquest of Egypt

Cambyses II earned his place in the hallmark of Persian history with his push eastwards into North Africa. Under his rule from 530 and 522 BCE, he pushed towards the rich and fertile lands of Egypt.

Cambyses II capturing Pharaoh Psamtik III