Artaphernes vs Otanes

Darius I appointed his brother Artaphernes as satrap of Lydia, a key province in western Anatolia. He administered the satrapy from Sardis, overseeing the collection of tribute and maintaining Persian control over the Greek city-states of Ionia.

Artaphernes received an Athenian embassy seeking Persian support against Sparta. He demanded earth and water as tokens of submission, which the Athenians gave. This agreement briefly made Athens a Persian ally, though it later contributed to the Persian Wars.

Artaphernes, as satrap of Lydia, played a key role in suppressing the Ionian Revolt against Persian rule. He coordinated military operations with the Persian fleet and reimposed Persian authority over the rebellious Greek cities, including the sack of Miletus.

Otanes was a leading figure in the conspiracy of the Seven Persian nobles who overthrew the Magian usurper Gaumata. He advocated for the assassination of the false king and helped secure the throne for Darius I.

After the overthrow of the Magi, Otanes proposed a debate among the conspirators on the best form of government for Persia. He argued for democracy, but the group ultimately chose monarchy, with Darius I as king.

After the debate, Otanes chose to retire from political life rather than serve under a monarch. He was granted special privileges by Darius I, including exemption from certain taxes, as a reward for his role in the conspiracy.

Otanes died around 490 BC. He is remembered for his role in the founding of the Achaemenid dynasty under Darius I and for his advocacy of democratic principles, which was unusual for the time.