Darius I Reorganizes the Persian Empire

Darius I established the satrapy system, dividing the empire into provinces with governors, standardized weights and measures, built the Royal Road (1,600 miles with relay stations), and created a unified currency called the daric. The guy basically invented federal government. His Behistun Inscription — carved into a cliff face in three languages — is one of the most important archaeological finds ever. He also authorized the Jewish Temple rebuilding.