Persian
The term Persian can refer to several interrelated concepts, including the people, language, culture, and historical aspects of Persia, now known as Iran.
People
The Persian People are an Iranian ethnic group that make up the majority of the population of Iran. Historically, they were known as Persians due to their origin from the ancient region of Persis, which corresponds to the modern-day province of Fars Province in Iran. Over time, the term has also been used to describe speakers of the Persian language, regardless of their ethnicity.
Language
Persian, also known as Farsi, is the predominant language of modern-day Iran and is also widely spoken in parts of Afghanistan and Tajikistan (where it is known as Dari and Tajik, respectively). It belongs to the Indo-Iranian branch of the Indo-European language family. Persian has a rich literary tradition, with works like the Shahnameh by Ferdowsi being celebrated as cultural treasures.
History
- Ancient Persia: The history of Persia begins with the establishment of the Achaemenid Empire by Cyrus the Great in the 6th century BCE. This empire was known for its administration, tolerance of different cultures, and the Royal Road.
- Medieval and Modern Periods: After the fall of the Achaemenids, Persia was ruled by various dynasties such as the Parthians and Sasanians. The Islamic conquest in the 7th century CE brought significant changes, leading to the spread of Islam and the integration of Islamic culture into Persian life. The Safavid Dynasty in the 16th and 17th centuries reestablished Persian national identity and culture.
- Modern Era: In 1935, Reza Shah Pahlavi, the Shah of Iran, asked foreign delegates to use the term "Iran" (land of the Aryans) in formal correspondence, officially changing the international name of the country from Persia to Iran, although the term Persian continues to be used for cultural and linguistic purposes.
Culture
Persian culture is renowned for its contributions to:
- Literature: Persian poets like Rumi, Hafez, and Omar Khayyam are globally recognized.
- Art: Persian miniatures, calligraphy, and carpet weaving are iconic.
- Cuisine: Known for dishes like Kebab, Chelow Kebab, and Ghormeh Sabzi.
- Architecture: Notable for its use of symmetry, colorful tiles, and intricate designs, as seen in Persepolis, Isfahan, and Shiraz.
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