Late Period
Artaxerxes III Ochus
31st Dynasty (Second Persian Period) · 343-332 BCE
Reign begins343 BCE
Reign ends338 BCE
Dynasty span343-332 BCE
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Re-imposing Persian rule
Artaxerxes III led a massive military invasion of Egypt in 343 BCE, successfully crushing native rule under Nectanebo II. After demolishing the defensive walls of key Egyptian cities and carrying off temple treasures and royal family members, he established the 31st Dynasty as a second period of Achaemenid control. His harsh administration and heavy suppression of local religion deeply embittered the Egyptian populace before his reign was cut short by assassination.