What strategy did Persia use to expand its empire?

The strategy of drawing soldiers from conquered populations was significant in the expansion of the Persian Empire, particularly under rulers like Cyrus the Great and Darius I. This practice allowed Persia to incorporate the military strength of conquered peoples into its own forces, creating a diverse and formidable army. By recruiting local populations, the Persians not only augmented their military but also helped to integrate these groups into the empire, which facilitated control over vast territories and contributed to stability.

Persia’s emphasis on utilizing local soldiers fostered loyalty and cooperation among those conquered, as it provided them with a stake in the imperial system. This approach was particularly effective given the diversity of cultures and peoples within the empire, allowing the Persians to maintain power over a sprawling realm that included various ethnic groups. In contrast, other possible strategies such as forming alliances or establishing colonies were less central to the strategy employed by the Persians for their rapid expansion.