satrap

Satrap is the title given to the governor of a province in the Achaemenid Persian Empire (c. 550–330 BCE). In the empire’s administrative system, a satrap acted as the king’s representative in a satrapy, combining civil governance with military command and answering to central authorities at Persepolis or Susa.

Etymology: The word derives from Old Persian khshātrā-pā, often translated as “protector of the province” or “holder of the realm’s power.” The Greeks borrowed the term as satrapēs, and it is used in classical and later sources to denote provincial governors.

Role and powers: Each satrapy was governed by a satrap who held civil and military authority, collected taxes, administered justice, maintained order, and raised troops. He typically ruled with the assistance of subordinate officials and reported periodically to the king. Central oversight—through audits and royal inspections—sought to align satraps with imperial policy and prevent rebellion or excessive autonomy.

Historical significance: The satrapic system enabled the Achaemenid Empire to govern a large and culturally diverse realm. The model influenced later Iranian administrations, including those under the Parthian and Sasanian empires. In classical literature, satraps are frequently attested as provincial governors; the term has also entered broader historical and linguistic usage to denote a governor of a province.