Artabanus of Persia

AncientPoliticianAchaemenid Empire-470 — -464

Regicide who killed Xerxes I, then killed by Artaxerxes.

Compare Artabanus of Persia with another historical figure:

Quick Facts

Born

470 BCE

Died

464 BCE

Country

Achaemenid Empire

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)50

Political (20%)44

Influence (20%)47

Legacy (20%)38

Leadership (15%)62

Strategy (15%)42

Total Score46.4

Artabanus of Persia — Complete Timeline

465 BC

Assassination of Xerxes IPolitical Action

Artabanus, commander of the royal bodyguard, conspired with the eunuch Aspamitres and assassinated King Xerxes I in his bedchamber. This act plunged the Achaemenid Empire into a succession crisis.

Achaemenid EmpireXerxes IRegicide

Impact: globaldestructive

464 BC

Murder of Artaxerxes I Attempt and DeathPolitical Action◆ Major

After briefly controlling the court, Artabanus attempted to kill Xerxes' son Artaxerxes I. The plot failed; Artaxerxes killed Artabanus with his own sword, ending the usurper's brief reign.

Achaemenid EmpireArtaxerxes IUsurpation

Impact: nationaltragic