Definition:
Seleucid Empire: A Hellenistic empire based in Syria, 312-63 B.C., which was founded upon Alexander the Great's death. His generals or satraps, the Diadochi, divided his empire when Alexander died, and the area which included much of the Middle East and Central Asia was taken by Seleucus.
Seleucus ruled over modern-day Afghanistan, Syria, Lebanon, Iran, and Iraq, plus parts of Armenia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan.
The general and his descendents had to cede large sections of the empire over the years, as they were unable to control the massive expanse.
Pronunciation: "seh-LOO-sid DY-nus-tee"
Also Known As: Diadochi Kingdom
Examples:
"The Seleucid Empire briefly regained its original glory during the rule of Antiochus III, between 223 and 191 B.C."
