Did Darius the first let conquered people keep their own customs in the hope that this would make the less likely to rebel?

Answer 1

Yes, Darius I allowed conquered peoples to retain their own customs and administrative practices, which was part of his strategy to maintain stability in his vast empire. By respecting local traditions and governance, he aimed to reduce the likelihood of rebellion and foster loyalty among diverse populations. This approach helped integrate various cultures within the Persian Empire while facilitating efficient administration.