Persian Period

In 6th century BC, Persians as part of their occupation policy of Anatolia attacked to Caria. They defeated Carian army near Cine River and advanced towards the heart of Caria. Persians who later divided these occupied regions into satrapies and appointed governors to rule didn't want to impose their religions and culture over the local populations. 

 

The Persians crossed Bosphorus and Dardanelles and even occupied Athenian Acropolis.

Artemisia, the queen of Caria was among those who helped the Persian king during his campaign during the capture of Athens. Also Salamis Sea Battle where Persian and Athenian fleets had a war, Artemisia was commanding 5 ships representing Halicarnasos, Cos and other ancient cities in the region. Though she tried to persuade Persian King not to have sea battle with Greeks, the king followed the decision of the majority. Artemisia fought gallantly and earned the praising words of the king:

"My men fought like women and my women fought like men"