Makers of History: Xerxes

One of the most arrogant kings decided he needed to make his name great, but he only succeeded in destroying his own empire.

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Get ready to be hooked by the complete story of his life—and learn about one of history's most famous losers at the same time! Xerxes had inherited a great empire from his father, Darius, and he wanted to match his father's feats and invade Greece. He would build one of the greatest invasion forces in all history and make one of the most remarkable bridges ever constructed. However, he would face more than a little trouble from both the Spartans and Athenians, and his invasion would go down in history as one of history's greatest flops.

This thrilling biography—written by Jacob Abbott and newly edited for younger readers—offers a glimpse into the life of one of the most disastrous reigns in world history.

Xerxes is part of Makers of History, a 19th century biography series by two brothers—Jacob and John S.C. Abbott. Reprinted by Canon Press, these biographies have been edited and brought up-to-date for readers twelve and up. Not only are these editions given vintage style paperback covers, but they also include introductions that explain where these men and women fit into the timeline of history."

From the Book:

"A violent storm arose and broke up the bridge which he had built across the Hellespont. When news of this came to Xerxes at his winter quarters at Sardis, he was enraged. He was angry both at the sea, for having destroyed the bridge, and at the architects, for having not built it strong enough. He decided to punish both of them. He ordered the sea to be scourged with a monstrous whip and had heavy chains thrown into it, as symbols of his control over it. The men who carried out these orders were told to shout at the sea: “Miserable monster! This is the punishment which your master Xerxes inflicts upon you, for the injury you have done him. Know that he will pass over you, whether you like it or not. He hates and defies you, the abomination of mankind!” As for the men who had built the bridge, he ordered every one of them beheaded." -From the Book