Deioces

(flourished early seventh century B.C.?)

   An early and perhaps legendary Median ruler who was said to be the grandfather of King Cyaxares II. According to the Greek historian Herodotus, Deioces and his son Phraortes were the first leaders to unify the Median tribes, who had long lived in scattered villages. "The Medes had established themselves in small settlements," Herodotus writes, and Deioces, who was already a man of mark in his own village, now entered wholeheartedly into the task of distinguishing himself for just dealing. In this he had a purpose; for throughout the country at that time there was no sort of organized government whatever. . . . Bent upon getting all power into his own hands, he performed this office with perfect integrity. (Histories 1.96)

   Herodotus adds that Deioces went on to build a palace and to erect the Median capital of Ecbatana. However, most modern scholars are unsure that Deioces was an actual historical figure, as the stories about him recorded by Herodotus may have been based on memories of the exploits of several different early Median leaders.

   See also: Cyaxares II; Ecbatana; Phraortes