In Greek mythology, why did Cronus swallow his children after they were born?

Cronus, the Titan ruler, was warned by a prophecy that one of his children would overthrow him, just as he had overthrown his own father, Uranus. In an attempt to prevent this fate, Cronus swallowed each of his children immediately after they were born. However, his wife, Rhea, deceived him during the birth of their youngest son, Zeus. She wrapped a stone in swaddling clothes and gave it to Cronus, who swallowed it, thinking it was the baby. Rhea secretly hid Zeus, who later grew strong and forced Cronus to regurgitate his siblings, ultimately leading to Cronus' downfall and Zeus' rise to power.