The father of Zeus in Greek mythology is Cronus, the Titan ruler who came to power by overthrowing his father, Uranus. Cronus feared being overthrown by his own children, leading him to swallow them at birth. However, his wife Rhea managed to save Zeus, who eventually grew up to fulfill the prophecy by defeating Cronus and liberating his siblings. This narrative highlights themes of power, fear, and the cyclical nature of leadership within Greek mythological tradition.