Iranians were aware of Sasanian history through traditional historical writings, but they knew nothing about Achaemenid history. Following European travellers to Persia, from the 15th century, who were well prepared by reading the Classical and Biblical texts, Persepolis and Pasargadae were rediscovered and Achaemenid history re-established in the 19th century. The rise of Reza Khan to power and his grand emphasis on Nationalism and ancient Iran that characterized his reign also left a deeper impact on Achaemenid Studies in this period. In this paper the re-establishment of Achaemenid history and its development in 19th 20th century will be discussed and reviewed.

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