Name: 2600 years of history in one object
Uploaded: 2012-02-20T16:37:33Z
Duration: 19 min 20 s
Description: A clay cylinder covered in Akkadian cuneiform script, damaged and broken, the Cyrus Cylinder is a powerful symbol of religious tolerance and multi-culturalism. In this enthralling talk Neil MacGregor, Director of the British Museum, traces 2600 years of Middle Eastern history through this single object.

A clay cylinder covered in Akkadian cuneiform script, damaged and broken, the Cyrus Cylinder is a powerful symbol of religious tolerance and multi-culturalism. In this enthralling talk Neil MacGregor, Director of the British Museum, traces 2600 years of Middle Eastern history through this single object.

Neil MacGregor: 2600 years of history in one object

2600 years of history in one object

The Cyrus Cylinder, a 2500-year-old icon of tolerance, shaped history from ancient empires to modern Middle Eastern politics.

Cyrus the Great's decree on the Cylinder, promoting freedom and respect across cultures, mirrors principles shaping today's world.

The Cyrus Cylinder, an ancient declaration, echoes through history, shaping religious tolerance and multicultural states.