How did the Persians ravage Egyptian civilization?

The Persians ravaged Egyptian civilization through a series of invasions and occupations that began with the conquest by the Achaemenid Empire, primarily under the rule of Cambyses II. Here's a step-by-step outline of how the Persians exerted their influence and control over Egypt:

1. Conquest: Persians first invaded Egypt in 525 BCE during the reign of Cambyses II, who was the son of Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. The Persian army defeated the Egyptian forces at the Battle of Pelusium, which marked the beginning of significant Persian influence in Egypt.

2. Administration: Following their victory, the Persians established control over Egypt, making it a satrapy (province) of their empire. Persian rule involved the appointment of a satrap (governor) to administer the province on behalf of the Persian king. The satrapy system was a relatively efficient way for the Persians to manage the diverse regions of their empire, including Egypt.

3. Heavy Taxation and Cultural Disrespect: The Persian governors imposed heavy taxes on the Egyptians and often showed little respect for local customs and religion, which were crucial to Egyptian identity and social coherence.

4. Suppression of Revolts: The period of Persian rule in Egypt was marked by several uprisings and revolts by the native Egyptians who sought to regain their independence. The Persians responded to these revolts with military force, further ravaging the local population, economy, and infrastructure.

5. Cultural Influence: Despite the harshness of Persian rule at times, there was also cultural interchange. Some Persian customs and practices were absorbed into Egyptian society. However, the overall relationship between the Persians and Egyptians was tense, and the latter maintained a strong sense of their distinct identity.

6. Second Occupation: After a brief period of independence, Egypt was reconquered by the Persians under Artaxerxes III in 343 BCE. This second period of Persian rule did not last long, as Alexander the Great later defeated the Persians and entered Egypt as a liberator in 332 BCE.

Overall, the Persian invasions and occupations disrupted the political autonomy of Egypt, and the impositions placed on the population and disrespect of local traditions contributed to the decline of the ancient Egyptian civilization during that era.