1 102 A The Parthians progressively seized West Asia during the 2nd century BC. They operated a feudal system that gave considerable autonomy to local nobles, who periodically seized independent power. Nevertheless the Parthian state successfully undertook massive irrigation projects, greatly increasing prosperity in many areas. They inherited a strongly Hellenized state, but under their rule indigeneous culture resurfaced.
# Parthians, Parthian rider
2 102 B The Sassanians @ Parthian rule was overturned by the Sassanians in AD 226. State political control became stronger and taxation increased. However, there was a corresponding increase in productivity, due to improvement of the irrigation systems. Work on these was undertaken by prisoners of war, including Romans, forcibly resettled in underpopulated areas. Foreign trade also brought great prosperity.
# Sassanians, Ardashir
3 103 C During the 2nd century BC, Rome gradually gained control over the eastern Mediterranean. Several legions defended the eastern frontier against the Parthians, while a network of roads ensured rapid military and official communications. Towns were founded and local aristocrats became Roman administrators, collecting taxes, which became more burdensome after the empire was divided in 330 AD.
# Romans, Mosaic from Ephesus
4 102 D Arabian spice kingdoms @ South-western Arabia was the main source of highly valued frankincense and myrrh, which were carried north by camel caravans, on roads built and controlled by local rulers, passing finally through the trading kingdom of the Nabataeans. In the early years AD improvements in sea travel caused the decline of this profitable land route.
