How did Cyrus conquer Babylon and how did people veiw him?

Cyrus the Great conquered Babylon in 539 BCE through a combination of military strategy and political acumen. He diverted the Euphrates River, allowing his troops to enter the city unnoticed under the lowered river levels. The inhabitants of Babylon largely viewed Cyrus favorably, as he presented himself as a liberator rather than a conqueror, respecting local customs and religion, and even allowing exiled peoples, like the Jews, to return to their homelands. His benevolent approach helped solidify his reputation as a just ruler.