Cyrus the Great, also referred to as Cyrus II of Persia or Cyrus the Elder, was a ruler who founded the First Persian Empire, also known as the Achaemenid Empire. His empire not only encompassed the civilized states of the ancient Near East but also included large parts of Central and Southwest Asia. Referred to as the “Father of his people” by the ancient Persians, his reign lasted for nearly thirty years. Though he conquered several empires, one unique quality about him was that he showed respect for the religions and cultures of the lands he conquered. This helped him win the support of the people and establish a proper administration that worked for their benefit. The ‘Cyrus Cylinder,’ often associated with him, is considered one of the oldest known declarations of human rights. He was also revered for his knowledge of politics as well as military strategy. Respected as an ideal monarch, he is referred to as a Messiah in the Hebrew Bible. Cyrus the Great managed to build the world's largest empire of his time. Even after his death, his successors continued to expand the empire. Cyrus is believed to have been killed during a battle with the Massagetae, after which his son Cambyses II succeeded him. Even centuries after his demise, he is remembered as one of the greatest leaders in history.