The famous leader of the ancient Persian Empire was Cyrus the Great, who reigned from 559 to 530 BCE. He founded the Achaemenid Empire, which became one of the largest empires in history, stretching from the Indus Valley to the Aegean Sea. Cyrus is renowned for his military conquests, effective administration, and pioneering approach to governance, which included respect for the cultures and religions of the peoples he conquered. His establishment of the Cyrus Cylinder is often considered one of the first declarations of human rights, underscoring his legacy as a ruler who promoted tolerance and justice.