Darius III

Lore & Background

Darius III was born c. As a reward, he was made satrap of Armenia. He soon forced Bagoas to drink poison after discovering a plot against his own life.

Reader's Guide

Darius III's reign marked the end of the Achaemenid Empire. Darius fled but was killed by his relative Bessus, satrap of Bactria, before Alexander could reach him. His legacy is largely known through Greek historians, who contrast his career with Alexander's success. The lack of Persian sources for his reign makes him a figure of historical uncertainty, though his rise from obscurity and his role as the last Achaemenid king underscore the empire's final collapse.

Did You Know?

• Darius III was born as Artashata, a distant member of the Achaemenid dynasty.
• He first gained notice during the Cadusian expedition of Artaxerxes III in the 350s BC, when he slew a warrior in single combat.
• He was made satrap of Armenia as a reward for his bravery.
• He forced the eunuch Bagoas to drink poison after discovering a plot against his own life.
• He was killed by his relative Bessus, satrap of Bactria, before Alexander could reach him.