Sogdianus

Sogdianus was a Persian usurper who briefly reigned as king of the Achaemenid Empire in 423 BCE. He was the son of Artaxerxes I and a concubine, and therefore a half-brother to the reigning king, Darius II. Upon Darius II's death, Sogdianus seized the throne, claiming it was his by right.

However, his reign was short-lived and marked by internal conflict. He faced opposition from his own noblemen, who were loyal to the legitimate heir, Ochus, another son of Artaxerxes I. Sogdianus's cruelty and the perceived illegitimacy of his rule further fueled discontent. Within a few months, Ochus, supported by his uncle Arsames, revolted against Sogdianus.

Facing overwhelming opposition, Sogdianus was captured. Accounts differ on his ultimate fate, with some stating he was executed by Ochus and others suggesting he was allowed to abdicate and live in exile. His reign is primarily remembered as a period of instability and dynastic struggle following the death of Artaxerxes I, highlighting the fragility of succession within the Achaemenid Empire. The brief and violent nature of his rule cemented his place as a minor, albeit significant, figure in Persian history.