Xenophon's “Cyrus The Great” is an excellent narrative on one of the most profound and inspirational leaders in history. Cyrus' philosophies and ideas on human rights and politics, are referred to by many leaders, still today. These philosophies and ideas can be applied directly to many aspects of business ethics. His perspective on leadership, morals, and governing can also be applied to everyday life, because of the overall benevolent message of his ideas. Cyrus also wrote, what is believed by many scholars to be the first declaration of human rights ever transcribed. Morally, the way Cyrus lived and ruled can serve as a model for the way people should strive to live; especially people in the business world.
“Cyrus The Great” was born around 580 BC in Anshan, Persia, which today, is Iran. He was the son of Cambsyes I, who also served as one of Cyrus' greatest mentors as he was growing up in the Achaemenid empire. Cyrus was actually named after Cambsyes' father, Cyrus I, hence Cyrus II. Cyrus had a rather catered life growing up, but was motivated to earn the respect of his peers. Almost as if he had a chip on his shoulder because he was born into royalty. He quickly learned that the way to transcend himself, was to expand his knowledge. He began to study vigorously and read many books that men of his father's court lent him. He became known by them as the “Well of Knowledge.” Cyrus' mental toughness became a huge part of his military successes because he was able to out-stratagize his enemies.
Cyrus obtained much of his character from his father. He often consulted with him before venturing out on his quests. Cyrus' uncle, Syazarees, first appealed to Cyrus to help lead an army to Media against the Assyrian forces that were threatening to the Achaemenid empire. Cyrus jumped at the opportunity and was chosen by the supreme council lead an expeditionary