Atropates

Atropates was a Median nobleman who served as a satrap under the Achaemenid Empire. He is primarily known for his role in the aftermath of the Battle of Gaugamela in 331 BCE. After the Persian king Darius III fled the battlefield, Atropates led the remaining Median forces and successfully defended the important city of Rhagae. This action was crucial in preventing Alexander the Great from immediately consolidating control over the entire Median territory.

Following Alexander's victory, Atropates appears to have switched his allegiance to the Macedonian conqueror. He was allowed to retain his position and authority, governing Media. This suggests that Alexander recognized Atropates' influence and competence, finding it advantageous to incorporate him into his new administrative structure.

Atropates' family continued to play a significant role in the region. His daughter married Alexander's general Perdiccas, further solidifying the family's ties to the Hellenistic powers. His son, also named Atropates, succeeded him as satrap of Media. The satrapy under Atropates and his descendants became known as Atropatene, a name that persisted for centuries and is believed to be the origin of the modern name Azerbaijan. His descendants ruled Atropatene as an independent kingdom for a considerable period, even after the decline of Alexander's empire.