Ionia between 547-494; political, economic and cultural facts

The present study, entitled "Ionia Between 547-494 B.C., Political, Economic and Cultural Facts" explores the political, economic and cultural progress of Ionia in Late Archaic Period between the Persian Conquest (547/546 B.C.) and the end of the Ionian Revolt (594 B.C.). The work falls into five main chapters. First chapter focuses on Ionia before the Persian reign, questioning a common Ionian identity as well as exploring the interrelations between Lydia, the leading power of the region and Ionia under its shadow. Second chapter surveys the rise of Achaemenid Empire and its first encounters with Ionia. Third chapter includes five parts. The first one discusses how Ionia was positioned under the satrapies in early years of Achaemenid administration and the progress of its own internal regimes; mainly tyrannies and the search for democracy (isonomia). Second part discusses the archaeological evidence from Ionian cities concerning the second half of sixth century B.C and the very early years of fifth century B.C.; fortifications, sanctuaries, temples, houses, necropoleis along with other findings with the help of literary and epigraphic evidence. Third part involves the economy; it explores agricultural production and related industries, trade and mercenary activities along the Archaic Period, examines the numismatic evidence, Persian taxation policy and questions the possible changes concerning the Ionian trade due to the Persian existence. Fourth part is the development of philosophy and scientific thought, a topic that has long been associated with Ionians while fifth part explores the art of Ionians, specifically pottery and sculpture of Archaic Ionia and questions the evidence regarding the traces of possible Achaemenid/Persian influence. Fourth chapter discusses the Ionian Revolt and its consequences. Final chapter is the conclusion of the study.