Term

Q: Who did Darius the Great overthrow to seize power in Persia?

Definition

A: Darius overthrew Smerdis, who was also known as Bardiya or Gaumata.

Term

Q: What were the circumstances surrounding Smerdis' claim to the throne before his overthrow by Darius?

Definition

A: Smerdis claimed to be the brother of Cambyses and became king, but it was later revealed that he was an imposter named Gaumata.

Term

Q: How did Darius gain support from Persian nobles before overthrowing Smerdis?

Definition

A: Darius gathered supporters by spreading rumors about the true identity of Smerdis and presenting himself as a legitimate claimant to the throne, eventually leading to his successful revolt against Smerdis.