6th century BC

In Western Asia, the first half of this century was dominated by the Neo-Babylonian Empire, which had risen to power late in the previous century after successfully rebelling against Assyrian rule.

The Kingdom of Judah came to an end in 586 BC when Babylonian forces under Nebuchadnezzar II captured Jerusalem, and removed most of its population to their own lands.

Babylonian rule was ended in the 540s by Cyrus, who founded the Persian Empire in its stead.

In Iron Age Europe, the Celtic expansion was in progress.

China was in the Spring and Autumn period.

Map of the Eastern Hemisphere in 600 BC, the beginning of the sixth century BC.
Map of the Eastern Hemisphere in 500 BC, the end of the sixth century BC.
Monument 1 , an Olmec colossal head at La Venta
An engraving on an eye stone of onyx with an inscription of Nebuchadnezzar II
Medieval image of Thales
Croesus on the pyre, Attic red-figure amphora
Faravahar , a symbol of Zoroastrianism in Persepolis
Tomb of Cyrus in Pasargadae
Gautama Buddha
Image of Laozi