Herodotus

Herodotus

Historian

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Quick Facts

The Histories
Father of History
Persian Wars

Father of History. First to investigate the past systematically — and tell great stories doing it.

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Life Journey

484 BCBorn in Halicarnassus, Caria

Herodotus was born in Halicarnassus, a Greek city in the region of Caria, which is now part of modern-day Turkey. His family was likely of some means, allowing for his later travels and education.

470 BCBegins formal education

Herodotus begins his formal education, likely receiving instruction in literature, philosophy, and the arts, which would later influence his writing and historical methodology.

460 BCTravels to Egypt

Herodotus embarks on his first major journey, traveling to Egypt to explore its ancient civilization, culture, and history, which would significantly influence his later works.

457 BCVisits Babylon and Persia

Herodotus travels to Babylon and Persia, gathering firsthand accounts and information about the Persian Empire, which he would later use in his historical writings.

450 BCSettles in Athens

Herodotus moves to Athens, the cultural and intellectual center of Greece, where he becomes part of the vibrant intellectual community and begins to write his histories.

447 BCBegins writing 'The Histories'

Herodotus starts writing his magnum opus, 'The Histories,' which covers the Greco-Persian Wars and explores the cultures and histories of various ancient civilizations.

443 BCReceives Athenian citizenship

Herodotus is granted Athenian citizenship, an honor that recognizes his contributions to the city and his status as a respected intellectual and historian.

431 BCTravels to Thuria

Herodotus travels to Thuria, a Greek colony in southern Italy, where he continues his research and writing, further refining 'The Histories.'

425 BCCompletes 'The Histories'

Herodotus completes his monumental work, 'The Histories,' which is considered one of the most important historical texts from the ancient world, providing a comprehensive account of the Greco-Persian Wars and the cultures of the time.

425 BCDies in Thuria

Herodotus passes away in Thuria, Italy, leaving behind a legacy as the 'Father of History' and a rich body of work that continues to influence historians and scholars to this day.

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