Darius II, surnamed Ochus, surnamed in Greek Nothos ('Bastard') d.404BC
King of Persia

The illegitimate son of Artaxerxes I, he seized power (c.424BC) in the dynastic struggle which followed his father's death, but was the tool of his cruel half-sister and spouse Parysatis. His reign was a long series of struggles and revolts ruthlessly suppressed. After the defeat of the Sicilian expedition of the Athenians (413), he resumed active Persian intervention in Greek affairs, and broke Athenian power (405). He died in Babylon, and was succeeded by his eldest son, Artaxerxes II.