QuoteReplyTopic: Commanders from the Antiquity Age Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:33
Themistocles (circa 525B.C. - 459 B.C.)
Athenian Politician (somewhat of a military commander)
Main architects of the Athenian Empire
Not Athenian decent (Father is Neocles from a small town (Phrearrhioi) and his mother was either a Carian or a Thracian).
May have been a strategus for his tribe at the battle of Marathon (may not necessarily be true).
Began political career after the battle of Marathon.
Became archont. 493-492 B.C.
Became a member of the Areopagus, the council of former magistrates. 492 B.C.
Proposed building a naval fleet in anticipation of a immenient second Persian invasion.
Aristides, leader of Athens, opposed this expensive initiative, but failed to defeat the notion (he was later banished). 483 B.C. NOTE:
That same year, silver was discovered in Laurion, east of Athens.
Instead of the traditional leasing of the mining rights, Themistocles
proposed to use the money to build warships (he insisted to the
citizens of Athens that the Persians could return one day and that
Athens was already at war with Aegina ~ but the real agenda was to use
the ships against the coming Persian invasion).
Darius, king of Persia, was succeeded by his son, Xerxes I.
Builds 200 triremes and fortify what was to become Pireus, the Athenian harbor.
Proposed
to the citizens of Athens that the evacuation of the city my be
required (settle in Troezen) and recall all exiles (i.e. Aristides and
Xanthippus). 481 B.C.
Navy was sent to Artemisium and Salamis.
Themistocles planned to defeat the Persian fleet at Cape Artemisium while the Spartan held the Persian army.
Sent a Greek expedition to the north to see if Greece could be defended at Tempe, this was soon aborted.
Cape Artemisium 480 B.C.
------------ Persian Fleet (800?) vs. Eurybiades (127)
The
Persians had occupied Magnesia, while the Athenian fleet set itself
near Cape Artemisium. Eurybiades wanted to retreat, however
Themistocles successfully bribed him to stay and fight. The first two
days proved indecisive. But on the third day, the Persian fleet came
out in full numbers. The beaten Athenian fleet limped away.
No casualty numbers from either side.
Plan is disasterous as both the battle of Cape Artemisium and Thermopyl become Persian victories.
Artemisium is evacuated.
Abandon Athens and attempts to further extend the Persian logistical lines.
Sets up operations to the island of Salamis.
To
entice the Persian fleet into the shallow and narrow bay of Salamis, he
sends message and acts as a traitor for Xerxes (telling him the Greeks
plan to leave at dawn on the 29th of September (Xerxes takes the bait).
Salamis September 28, 480 B.C.
------------
Xerxes (600?) vs. Themistocles (180 triremes)
Themistocles
picked the straits for a naval battle against the Persians. The larger
Persian fleet's mobility was hampered as the heavier Greek ships
swarmed and rammed the ships. The Phoenician fleet panics and flees.
Sometime after during the battle, a general return is made. It is said
Xerxes was watching the battle high above the channel.
200 Persian ships are captured or sunk
40 Greek ships are captured or sunk
Xerxes
is forced to retreat (The Athenian refugees re-established themselves
in Athens. Though it was, again, briefly taken by the Persians). NOTE:
Babylon, led by the two rebel kings; Bl-shimmani and ama-eriba,
revolts in 479 B.C., preventing the Persians from continuing the
campaign.
Themistocles angered the Spartans by continuing to build
the wall that protected the logistical supply line of Athens to its
newly-established harbor, Pireus.
Talked about plans of Athenian
colonizations of the west (Disabled the 'alien's tax' which prompted
many foreign business to establish themselves in Athens).
Themistocles is at his height of popularity, the next year it begins to decline.
As
a guest of honor in Sparta, he lied to the Spartans when they
questioned the fortification of Athens (he said he was unaware of it).
NOTE: He finally told them the truth, Athens had indeed
fortified the city and that Sparta must now treat Athens as equals.
They did not like this response. Winter 478 B.C.
Themistocles
is banished from Athens after Cimon, Miltiades' son and leader of the
aristocratic party (his arrogance made more enemies than he could
readily afford). 471 B.C.
Retired to Argos.
Accused by the Spartans of treasonable acts with Persia, he fled to Corcyra.
Briefly stayed with Admetus, the king of the Molossians.
Eventually made it to Persia (Declared a traitor by the Athenians, his property there was confiscated).
Artaxerxes I, Xerxes's son, granted Themistocles 200 talents and made him governor of Magnesia, Myus, and Lampsacus.
Died either a natural death or committed suicide when faced with making war against Athens.
Memorial raised in Magnesia, but his body may haven been sent to Attica (worshipped as a god in Magnesia).
Callimachus (? ? ? - 490 B.C.)
Athenian polemarch at Marathon.
One of the Greek commanders at the battle of Marathon.
Led by their king, Darius I, the Persians invaded Greece in retribution for their assistance in the Ionian Revolt.
Eretria, one of the two city-states that were involved in the Ionian Revolt, had already fallen (through treachery).
Callimachus
had the deciding vote when the 10 strategoi were split on whether to
attack the Persians or not (under Miltiades advise, he voted to attack).
Marathon September 21, 490 B.C.
Datis (26,000) vs. Miltiades (10,000)
Both
armies faced each other for eight days. Overlooking the plain, the
Greeks, more armored than the Persians, decided to take advantage of
the Persians position of their backs being to the sea on the 9th day.
The Greeks central line, softened by the reduction of troops by
Militiades, marched towards the front lines of the Persians. As they
approached 'the beaten zone' of the Persian archer range, they
charged. Some time during the battle, the Persian center began to push
the Greeks back. Meanwhile, the wings of the Greeks, beefed up before
the battle, almost instantly, was able to push the flanks of the
Persians, thus inadvertantly creating the first 'Double Encirclement'
of the enemy. Callimachus was on the right wing (the Athenian army)
and the left was commanded by the Plataeans. The Greeks pushed the
Persians to their ships and were able to capture seven of the ships.
Callimachus was killed during the last part of the battle. Marathan
was a monumental morale booster for the Greeks.
6,400 Persians killed
192 Athenians killed (these men received Honorary Ceremonial funeral mounds)
J.F.C. Fuller, A Military History of the Western World
---------------------------------
"...their
victory endowed the Greeks with a faith in their destiny which was to
endure for three centuries, during which western culture was born."
Miltiades (c.555-489)
Athenian general
Son of Cimon.
Became a archont. 524-523 B.C.
Belonged to the areopagus (high court stature)
Inherited the peninsula north of Troy and west of the Hellespont, called Chersonese. circa 520 B.c.
Built a wall across the Chersonese.
Attacked the city of Lampsacus. NOTE: Taken cative, but released after diplomatic intervention through Croesus, the king of Lydia.
Strengthened his political position by marrying Hegesipyle, A Thracian and daughter of Olorus.
Forced to flee Chersonese after the Scythians invaded it. circa 515 B.c.
Conquered the islands of Lemnos, Imbros, and Tenedos.
Returned to Chersonese and with the assistance of the Persian king, Darius I, successfully crushed the Scythians. 513 B.C.
Believed to have been living in Athens in 507 B.C.
Ionian city-states revolted against the Persia, apparently Miltiades supported them.
Revolt fails; forced to flee the Chersonese to Athens when the Persian fleet approaches. 494 or 493 B.C. NOTE: His son, Metiochus, apparently was captured and was deported to Persia. However, he was treated honorably.
Settled in Athens.
The Persian army, led by Mardonius, conquered Macedonia. 492 B.C.
Darius,
the Persian king, sent a new expedition west to conquer Eretria and
Athens. (this army is led by Datis and Artaphernes). 490 B.C.
Persians added Naxos, the largest island in the Aegean sea, to their empire.
Delos was also captured.
Eretria was captured by Artaphernes (inhabitants deported to Elam).
Marathon September 21, 490 B.C.
Datis (26,000) vs. Miltiades (10,000)
Both
armies faced each other for eight days. Overlooking the plain, the
Greeks, more armored than the Persians, decided to take advantage of
the Persians position of their backs being to the sea on the 9th day.
The Greeks central line, softened by the reduction of troops by
Militiades, marched towards the front lines of the Persians. As they
approached 'the beaten zone' of the Persian archer range, they
charged. Some time during the battle, the Persian center began to push
the Greeks back. Meanwhile, the wings of the Greeks, beefed up before
the battle, almost instantly, was able to push the flanks of the
Persians, thus inadvertantly creating the first 'Double Encirclement'
of the enemy. Callimachus was on the right wing (the Athenian army)
and the left was commanded by the Plataeans. The Greeks pushed the
Persians to their ships and were able to capture seven of the ships.
Callimachus was killed during the last part of the battle. Marathan
was a monumental morale booster for the Greeks.
6,400 Persians killed
192 Athenians killed (these men received Honorary Ceremonial funeral mounds) NOTE:
Something interesting about the number of casaulties; if you multiple
192 (number of Greeks killed) by 100, then divide that number 3. You
come up with... TADA! 6,400! (number of Persians killed)
Earned a fleet of 70 ships.
Led a failed expedition of the island of Paros, Persian-held archipelago. NOTE: He broke a leg during the expedition.
Accused of treachery by his opponent, Xanthippus, Miltiades was forced to pay a fine of 50 talents.
Unable to pay, he remained in jail.
Died from gangrene of wounds from the battle at Paros. 489 B.C.
Leonidas (? ? ? - 480 B.C.)
Spartan king
the seventeenth of the Agiad line.
Son of King Anaxandridas II of Sparta.
Succeeded Cleomenes I, his half-brother, as king of Sparta. 489 or 488 B.C.
Leonidas marries Cleomenes I's daughter, Gorgo.
Went to Thermopylae with 300 of his royal bodyguard and 6,000 allies to oppose the coming Persian army, led by Xerxes I. 480 B.C.
Thermopyl 480 B.C.
------------ Xerxes I(100,000) vs. Leonidas (300 Spartans, 6,000 Greek Allies)
Leonidas
initiative was the hold the Persians at Thermopylae while the Greek
(Athenian) navy defeats their counterparts, thus cutting the Persian
supply. Leonidas picked Thermoplyae 'the Hot Gates'. Located along
the Aegean Sea, it is a narrow pass between the sea and rough hills.
The Greeks rebuilt the wall there that had once was a part of a small
fort.
Expecting reinforcements, the Greeks were suprised when the
Persians arrived quicker than experted. The defense at Thermoply
presented Xerxes with an interesting dilemma. Xerxes could not afford
to abandon the sea, his only line of communication and supply, in order
to bypass the natural fortified position the Greeks held. Thus Xerxes
announced his arrival to the Greeks and expected them to abandon the
position. After the fourth day, Xerxes ordered the Medes to assault
the wall. The Medes marched forward, the Spartans feinted a retreat.
The Medes broke rank and charged the Spartans, who reformed and smashed
the Medes. Another Persian assault, led by the best Persian troops
called the Immortals, was also repulsed by the same ploy later that
day. A second day of battle took place with similar results (no
description).
By this time, the battle at sea had been lost to the
Greeks. Thermopyl had now become a delaying action. Ephialtes, from
Malis, betrayed the Greek position by showing the Persians, whom were
lead by Hydarnes, the goat path that would flank the Greeks. The
Greeks had set up the men of Phocis to guard the most likely path, but
the Persians were shown a path that wasn't guarded. Trapped, Leonidas
ordered the Spartans to stay and fight and sent his Greek allies away
(Theban force was forced to stay, the escaping allies would be found
and destroyed by the Persian forces attempting to bypass Thermoply).
600 Thespians refused to leave. Leonidas was killed, but a group of
Spartans, with great fervor, defended the body. The rest of the Greeks
at Thermoply defended a hill (The Thebans surrendered during the
chaos). The Persians continued to fire a rain of arrows until the
Greeks were finally overwhelmed. The body of Leonidas was decapitated
and crucified. Later, his body was returned to Sparta and buried with
full honors.
4,000 Greek casualties
10,000 (?) Persian casualties
Leonidas killed
Xerxes' two brothers killed
Epitaph at Thermopylae
-----------------------------
Go, tell the Spartans, stranger passing by,
That here, obedient to their laws, we lie.
Aristides, 'the Just' (530 B.C. to 468 B.C.)
Athenian politician and general
Son of Lysimachus.
Was a supporter of Cleisthenes (the aristocratic party in Athenian politics).
Political opponent of Themistocles, who had a strong policy for a strengthened navy for Athens.
One of ten Athenian 'strategos' at the battle of Marathon. 490 B.C. NOTE: Gave up his opportunity to command in order to have the army be led by Miltiades. The other commanders followed suit.
Elected archon. 489-488 B.C.
Aristides was ostracized [banishment] by the Athenians. Between 483 B.C.
Persians, led by Xerxes I, invaded Greece. 480 B.C.
Offered his services to Themistocles and persuaded the other Greeks to follow the Themistocles' strategy.
Became an elected strategos. 480-479 B.C.
Convinced Themistocles to leave the Hellespont bridge alone, allowing the Persians an exit from Greece.
Following the battle of Salamis, defeated the Persian garrison on the island of Psyttaleia.
Re-elected strategos.
Was instrumental in cementing the Greek alliance after the battle of Plateae. 479 B.C. NOTE: The games held there were Aristides' idea.
Gained complete trust with the Ionians and was influencial in the creation of the Delian League.
Allowed the archonships open to all male citizens. NOTE:
Warns the Athenian assembly to not follow Themistocles' idea to destroy
the Greek arsenal to make Athens the most powerful city-state in
Greece. The Athenians assembly complies with Aristides and disregards
Themistocles' objective.
Changed the rate for the city-states way of levy from weapons and manpower to money. NOTE He was duly noted for his incorruptiblity.
His death is never quite defined.
Mardonius (? ? ? - 479 B.C.)
Persian General
Son of Gobryas, who was one of seven men who led the overthrow of the Medes, and son-in-law of Darius I. NOTE: He married his daughter, Artozostra.
Within
the Ionian cities, Mardonius surprisingly established democratic
governments (deposing the Persian princes) in the attempt to appease
the Ionians from revolting a second time.
With an army, sent to Greece to punish Athens and Eretria for their assistance in the Ionian Revolt (which had failed). 492 B.C.
Thrace and Macedonia submit to Marodius and pay tribute to the Persians.
Also has Thasos to submit to the Persians.
His fleet was destroyed by a storm when it left the island of Thasos and attempted to navigate Mount Athos. NOTE: Herodotus lists gives a number, but it is hardly worth noting as it seems quite inaccurate.
Mardonius, despite the lost of his fleet, continues the campaign
In Thrace, his camp is attacked at night by the Briygi, wild
Thracian tribe. Casualties are high and Mardonius is wounded.
He subdues the Briygi tribe.
With a depleted force and his fleet lost, he elected to abandon the campaign and retreat back to Asia Minor.
Darius relieves him of command of the army. 490 B.C. NOTE:Artaphrenes takes command and is defeated at Marathon.
Darius dies, his son, Xerxes I, takes command.
Mardonius
supports the preparation of war against the rebellious Egyptians; also
advised to go after the Greeks when the Egyptian campaign is done. NOTE:
Another advisor, named Artabanus, offered to be cautious towards the
Greeks. However, Mardonius took advantage of the fact that Xerxes
father had strong ambitions in Europe and to avenge the defeat at
Marathon. NOTE: The campaign in Egypt was successful, though,
it doesn't appear Mardonius participated in it. His strong demand to
war against Greece was awarded with becoming one of seven commanders to
control of the army. By far, of the commanders, he was the most
trusted and respected by Xerxes.
The Persian army crosses the Hellespont on a pontoon bridge. NOTE:
Messengers were sent to Greek cities. Demanding their symbolic
submission through earth and water. cities that surrendered were
forced to add more troops to the already large Persian army.
Mardonius' participation of various battles goes unrecorded.
Athens is captured and burnt.
The Persian navy suffers a crushing defeat at Salamis. NOTE:
Suspecting the failed campaign would be blamed on him, he blamed the
Persian allies and offered Xerxes an exit strategy while he remains in
Greece to resolve this matter. Xerxes is satisfied with this plan and
gives governorship to Mardonius of what was still in Persian control in
Greece.
Secures the retreat to Thessaly.
At this time, the people of Athens prepared to punish the city-states that joined the Persians.
Allied with the Macedonian king, Alexander I.
Using
Alexander, offered a truce and ultimatum with the Athenians, but was
politely rejected (making sure the Spartans witnessing the event).
Marched to Athens and captured the undefended city. 479 NOTE: Which was still deserted after it had been captured and partically burnt.
Sent another message for the Athenians to surrender.
Upon hearing word of the Spartans march to Attica to assist them, he sacks and abandons Athens.
Marched north into Boeotia.
Built a fortress near Thebes.
Skimishes occur for the next two months. April/May 479
The Greek army moved north to Eleusis; positioning itself in the foothills of Mount Cithaeron.
Mardonius positioned his army along the Asopos river.
Sent his cavalry to harass the Greeks, this continued until Masistius, their commander, was thrown form his horse and killed. NOTE: His men failed to recover the body. This tested the morale of the Persian army.
The Greeks emerged from the foothills onto the plains of Plataea arrayed themselves relative to their city-state origin.
Athenians formed the left wing; Spartans formed the right (the Tegeans were in the middle).
Sacrifices were made for 10 days, but each result for Mardonius was a bad omen (small skirmishes occurred each day).
Mardonius began preparations for combat on the 11th day. NOTE: Alexander I successfully warns the Greeks about the
attack. During the night, the Spartans and Athenians switched
positions.
Viewing
his best troops were not affront with the Spartans; Mardonius
challenged the Spartans in a winner-take-all battle between them and
his best troops. The Spartans refused.
Plataea 479 B.C.
========================================
Mardonius (80,000) vs. Pausanias [Spartan General] (110,000)
The
Greeks positioned themselves on the Asopus ridge, terrain rough on
expected cavalry attacks. They also had 5,000 Spartan warriors in the
army, the largest among of Spartans ever gathered for battle. However,
their supply line had to be delivered along the Asopus river.
Mardonius sent the Persian cavalry against the Greek infantry. The
cavalry was somewhat successful as they pried the Greeks from the
river. Fighting continued for the rest of the day. By day's end, the
Greeks retreated to a better tactical location. The next morning,
viewing the retreat as a sign of weakness, Mardonius, leading the way,
sends in his best troops. Much of the combat took place around the
temple of Hera. The Persian troops were unable to penetrate the Greek
lines as the long spears bested the short, Persian sword and spears.
The Greeks were able to surround Mardonius and Aeimnestus, a Spartan,
kill him. NOTE: Despite the Spartans' refusal to initiate the
act, the Greeks cut the head off of Mardonius and placed on a stake
(much like the same fate Leonidas at Thermopylae). He body was never
recovered.
Artabazus, upon becoming the new military commander of the Persian force, ordered an immediate retreat.
Inaccurate
losses, however, it is traditionally safe to say that the loser had
large number killed and the winner had a much smaller number (Herodotus
suggests 159) NOTE: The Greeks later attack the Persian fortress near Thebes. NOTE:
Mycale supposively took place on the same day. The Greek navy destroys
the Persian fleet, effectively destroying Persian dominance in the
Aegean sea.
CONGO NOTE
Mardonius
seemed like a good negotiator. However, it seems that anything he
touched in Greece turned bad for the Persians. Even his negotiation
skills fell apart. Not really a good military commander, but he was a
big player on the losing side of big events.
Brasidas (? ? ? to 422 BC)
Spartan officer
Son of Tellis and Argileonis
Relieved Methone, which was besieged by the Athenians.
Methone 431 B.C.
================================= Brasidas (100) vs. Unknown Athenian general (? ? ?)
An
Athenian army, carried by 100 ships, landed in Spartan territory at
Methone. Brasidas happened to be nearby. Finding the Athenian army
dispersed, he charged against the Athenians and forced his way into
Methone, thus saving the city. NOTE: First Spartan to receive the official 'congratulations of Sparta'.
Was a eponymous ephor. 430 B.C. NOTE:
An ephor was an official of ancient Sparta. There were five ephors
elected annually, who swore each month to uphold the rule of the kings,
while the kings swore to uphold the law.
One of three commissioners to be advisors to admiral Cnemus in the attacks on Rhion, Naupactos and Salamis. 429 B.C.
Distinguished himself at the battle of Pylos.
Pylos 425 B.C.
=================================
King Agis (? ? ?) vs. Demosthenes (? ? ?)
King
Agis invaded Attica. The Athenians, using a fleet of 40 ships, landed
at Pylos and began fortify their position. Once King Agis received
word of the news, he removed his army from Attica and marched to
Pylos. He also had a fleet of 60 ships meet him there. Six days
later, the fortification was complete and the Athenians fleet left for
Corcyra and Sicily (5 ships remained behind). Demosthenes had the 40
Athenian ships return after word was received of the Spartan fleet
nearby.
The plan for the Spartans was to blockade the Pylos port and
land an army on Sphacteria, a nearby island. A Spartan force of 440
hoplites, led by Epitadas, landed on Sphateria. Demosthenes, most of
his army consisted of unarmed sailors, took 60 hoplites to defend the
beach against the Spartan landing. Demothenes inspired his troops with
a speech (stating the Athenians will be victorious if they stand their
ground on the beach). A Spartan fleet of 43 ships arrived under the
command of Thrasymelidas and Brasidas. The Spartan amphibious landing
was repulsed and Bradsidas was injured. The Athenian fleet of 50 ships
arrived. The Spartan fleet refused battle at sea and unintentionally
allowed the Athenian fleet to enter the port of Pylos. The Athenian
fleet than chased the Spartan fleet away which suddenly isolated the
Spartan troops on Spacteria. NOTE: After a failed truce; the Athenians invaded Sphacteria.
Harrassed the Athenian force at Megara in Thrace. 424 B.C.
Marched 1,700 men through Thessaly and joined the Macedonian king, Perdiccas.
Abandoning
Perdiccas due to a difference in goals, he successfully won over
Acanthus, Stagirus, Amphipolis, Torone and a few minor towns through
negotiations.
The Capture of Amphipolis Winter of 424 B.C.
================================= Brasidas (? ? ?) vs. Eucles (? ? ?)
Located
along the Strymon river, Amphipolis was attacked by Brasidas. Eucles
sent for help from thucydides who was located at Thasos with 7 Athenian
ships. Brasidas offered retention of everyone's property and safe
passage for those who wished to leave. Despite Eucles' protests,
Amphipolis surrendered.
Attacking Eion, an Athenian force, led
by Thucydides, the historian, disrupted the Spartan attack with those
who had left Amphipolis. NOTE: Despite the victory at Eion,
Thucydides was recalled to Athens and was tried, founnd 'gross
negligence' for his failure to save Amphipolis and exiled.
Imperiled
a truce between Athens and Sparta when he refused to hand over Scione
whom the Athenians declared had revolted days before the truce.
Occupied the town of Mende, further hampering the truce.
Under Nicias and nicostratus, an Athenian fleet recovered Mende and blockaded Scione. 423 B.C.
Rejoined Perdiccas and defeated the Lyncesti whom were led by their king, Arrhabaeus.
Disaster
struck when the Illyrians, whom were allied with Perdiccas, declared
their allegiance for Arrhabaeus. The Macedonians then fled. Brasidas
managed to extricate himself from the situation.
The quarrel between Brasidas and Perdiccas promply led to a concluded treaty between Athens and Macedonia.
The Sparta/Athen treaty expired. April 422
An Athenian force of 30 ships, 1,200 hoplites and 300 cavalry, led by Cleon, was sent to Thrace.
Cleon captured Torone Scione, and Galepsus. NOTE: Pasitelidas, the Spartan commander at Scione, was killed.
Amphipolis 422 B.C.
================================= Brasidas (2,300) vs. Cleon (1,800)
Cleon
positioned his troops at Eion; Brasidas at cerdylium. Unconvinced
victory could be attained against Cleon, Brasidas, moved his forces
back into Amphipolis. Cleon advanced on Amphipolis and, after
realizing Brasidas had no intentions of setting up for battle, prepared
to return to Eion. The Spartans, led by Brasidas, charged the
disorganized Athenian troops. The Spartan commander, Clearidas, kills
Cleon. The Athenian army flees to Eion
600 Athenians killed, including Cleon.
7 Spartans killed, one of them was Brasidas.
Buried at Amphipolis and a cenotaph was erected, near the tombs of Pausanias and Leonidas, in his memory at Sparta.
With
Brasidas and Cleon, both strong advocators of war, killed, this paved
the way for Sparta and Athens to conclude a peace treaty.
The Peace of Nicias was signed. 421 B.C.
Jon Martin in 'Brasidas-Sparta's Most Extraordinary Commander'
==================================
"Although
Lysander is the best known of the Spartan commanders of the war, being
the architect of final victory, no other single Spartan exhibited the
flexibility of intellect, persuasiveness of oratory and bravery and
skill in combat. So exceptional were his abilities that traditional,
ultra-conservative Sparta did as much to suppress his actions as did
any Athenian foe. In a more modern context, he may be compared to
Rommel, a popular and chivalric general, dispatched by his country to a
remote theater of war, with an inadequate force and little expectation
of success. Like Rommel, he would astonish enemy and friend with his
victories, but unlike Rommel, he would ultimately triumph."
Demosthenes (384 BC - 322 BC)
Greek's greatest orator
No military experience - Important Greek figure.
"Beware lest in your anxiety to avoid war you obtain a master.
=======================================
Demosthenes (? ? ? - 413 B.C.)
Athenian General
Son of Alcisthenes.
Commanded a fleet that was sent to Naupactus to blockade Corinth, Sparta's ally. 426 B.C.
Ignored
the request for assistance from the Ambracian and instead of invading
the island of Leucas; Aetolia was invaded (it was a threat to the port
of Naupactus).
The Ambracian allies refused to assist in this campaign.
Expected allies also did not show up (the Locrians).
Campaign
in Aetolia proved difficult as Demothenes discovered his heavy-armed
hoplites were not fast enough against the lightly-armored Aetolians
(Locrians could have been able to counter this attack with their
javelin throwers).
By the end of the war season, 180 of his men of 300 survived.
Did not return to Athens for fear of his life for his failure in the campaign.
With
the Ambracians refusing to join their Athenian allies and the Locrians
not fighting, the Aetolians started an alliance with Sparta. 425 B.C.
Demosthenes managed to find a way to re-unit the Ambracian forces with his own (through negotiations).
Returned to Naupactus, the Spartans retreated when they realized the city would not be stormed.
The Spartans turned on the town Amphilochian Argos, an Ambracian ally. NOTE: Some time later Ambracians became an ally to the Spartans - specifics not found.
Became a private citizen.
The Acarnanians sought help from Demosthenes.
With a group of volunteers, followed the Spartan army north near Argos.
Both armies waited for 5 days before Eurylochus, the Spartan commander, moved against the Athenian volunteer force.
Demosthenes
left his left flank weak which allowed the Spartans to encircle his
force. The Spartans were suddenly attacked by a reserve force that
Demosthenes had left in the rear. This caused the Spartans to panick;
victory was complete. NOTE: Eurylochus and one other Spartan commanders were killed.
What was left of the Spartan army was besieged and their commander, Mendaeus, surrendered.
Demosthenes gave them generous terms (safe passage back to Sparta), but continued to war against the Ambracians.
The Ambracian army was coming to relieve the Spartans (who had already surrendered).
Surprised the Ambracians and wiped out the force.
Athens was the dominate force in western Greece theater.
Established an Athenian fort in Pylos, which was owned by the Messenians and hostile towards Sparta. Spring 425 B.C.
Pylos 425 B.C.
=================================
King Agis (? ? ?) vs. Demosthenes (? ? ?)
King
Agis invaded Attica. The Athenians, using a fleet of 40 ships, landed
at Pylos and began fortify their position. Once King Agis received
word of the news, he removed his army from Attica and marched to
Pylos. He also had a fleet of 60 ships meet him there. Six days
later, the fortification was complete and the Athenians fleet left for
Corcyra and Sicily (5 ships remained behind). Demosthenes had the 40
Athenian ships return after word was received of the Spartan fleet
nearby.
The plan for the Spartans was to blockade the Pylos port and
land an army on Sphacteria, a nearby island. A Spartan force of 440
hoplites, led by Epitadas, landed on Sphateria. Demosthenes, most of
his army consisted of unarmed sailors, took 60 hoplites to defend the
beach against the Spartan landing. Demothenes inspired his troops with
a speech (stating the Athenians will be victorious if they stand their
ground on the beach). A Spartan fleet of 43 ships arrived under the
command of Thrasymelidas and Brasidas. The Spartan amphibious landing
was repulsed and Bradsidas was injured. The Athenian fleet of 50 ships
arrived. The Spartan fleet refused battle at sea and unintentionally
allowed the Athenian fleet to enter the port of Pylos. The Athenian
fleet than chased the Spartan fleet away which suddenly isolated the
292 Spartan troops on Spacteria. NOTE: Spartans offered a truce, but Cleon refused. Many in Athens felt this was a mistake.
Cleon met Demosthenes at Pylos.
Attacked the Spartans on Sphacteria and forced them to uncharacteristically surrender.
Returned to Athens receiving a hero's welcome.
Demosthenes and Hippocrates failed to capture Megara and were defeated by Brasidas. 424 B.C.
Cleon and Demosthenes carved out a plan to attack Thebes, another Sparta ally.
Cleon and Hippocrates would attack Boeotia from the northeast at Delium; Demosthenes from the south.
The plan was betrayed and Demosthenes defeated at Sicyon. NOTE: Cleon was defeated at Delium and Brasidas, the Spartan general, took Amphipolis.
Cleon and Brasidas were killed at the battle of Amphipolis.
Demosthenes was discredited and Athens signed a peace treaty.
Despite
being discredited, Demosthenes was one of the Athenians who swore the
oaths for the signing of the Peace of Nicias. The Archidamian War
ended. March 421 NOTE: There were actual two people with the same name of Demosthenes; the other was from Sparta.
Conducted minor operations in Epidaurus. 418-417 B.C.
Following the battle of Mantinea, he organized the evacuation of the Athenian troops.
Despite
the fact that the Spartans, led by their king, Agis II, occupied
Decelea near Athens, the Athenians sent Demosthenes and Eurymedon with
73 ships and 5,000 hoplites to resurrection the ill-fated Syracuse
campaign. 413 B.C. NOTE: Nicias fell ill, Alcibiades, was recalled, and Lamachus
was killed in action. The Athenians failed to surround the
city. NOTE: The Spartan occupation of Decelea started the Decelean or Ionian War.
Reached Syracuse. 413 B.C.
Demosthenes immediately attacked the counterwall by surprised, but was repulsed.
Demosthenes suggests an evacuation of Syracuse; the campaign could not be won. Nicias was against the idea.
After waiting for a surrender of the Syracusans, Nicias agreed.
The
night of the evacuation (August 27, 413), a lunar eclipse occurred.
Nicias viewed this an omen from bad origins and delayed the evacuation.
Soon after, the Syracusans blocked the harbor, ending the thought of evacuation by sea. NOTE: Eurymedon was killed when the Syracusans took the harbor.
Nicias abandoned his position. Attempted to travel to north to Catana. Harrassed by Syracusan cavalry.
Six days later, they turned south.
Demosthenes' troops fell behind and surrendered; accepting slavery.
A day later, Nicias surrendered.
Against the orders of Gylippus, the Spatan commander, Demosthenes and Nicias were execution.
All the Athenians soon died from malnutrition and exposure as they worked in a stone quarry.
Epaminondas (418?-362 B.C.)
--------------------------------------------------------
Theban general Epanminondas is a member of Congo's Top 100 Commanders of All Time. NOTE: This portfolio of Epaminodas has not been updated for several years.
Studied philosophy with Pythagorian philosopher Lysis of Tarentum.
(Also had constant philosophical conversations with Theban Simias and the Tarentine Spintharos, both pupils of Socrates.)
Fought at the battle of Arkadians. 385 B.C.
Saved friend and commander Pelopidas after a hard struggle. Both seriously wounded.
Captured the Sikyonian town of Phoebia.
(Did
not kill Boeotian fugitives as directed under the Theban law, but
assigned them new nationality of their choosing and set them free.)
A Theban delegat to the peace conference. 371 B.C.
(Refused to surrender his claim to represent all Boeotia. Sparta therefore excluded Thebes from the peace.
He was the first serious student of battlefield tactics in Greece (that we know of).
Two main innovations were his alteration of the phalanx
(into the form that would later allow the Macedonians to take all Greece, and most of the known world.)
and also he introduced the concept of combined arms onto the battlefield.
Noticed
the phalanxs inevitable tendency to shift to the right, as each man in
the line tried to cover himself as much as possible under the next
man's shield.
Reinforced the left flank to 50 men deep.
Kept his right flank back, threatening the enemy's left, but not engaging it till necessary. This is the oblique order of battle.
Able to bring a superior force of cavalry, both in quantity and quality.
Thebans defeated the Spartans, who outnumbered them by about 4,000 at Leucatra. 371 B.C.
LEUCATRA
First, he sent his cavalry forward, which defeated, but did not route the Spartan cavalry and light infantry.
Following
this, lined up his army in oblique order, and smashed into the
Spartans right, where the best Spartans and their king, Cleombrotos,
were.
The deeper phalanx smashed through the Spartan line before
the Spartans were able to reinforce it. King Cleombrotos was killed,
and the Spartan right wing collapse. The Spartan left sees this,
having not yet even engaged the Thebans, who were still holding back,
retreated. This victory ended the dominance of Sparta over Greece.
Bolstered Boeotian power by building up Messenian independence from Sparta.
Appointed
as a mere hoplite in an expedition of the Theban army to rescue
Pelopidas, who had been captured by Alexander of Pherae.
Gained control of army after difficulties arose, returned to Thebes.
Appointed Boetarch, immediately returned to Thessaly with an army to force the release of Pelopidas.
Crushed Sparta, currently allied with Athens, at Mantinea. 362 B.C.
MANTINEA
The
Thebans faced off against most of the rest of Greece, with even Athens
allying with Sparta. This time the armies met at Mantinea, where the
Thebans outnumbered the Spartans and their allies. The Spartans hadn't
learned anything since the Leucatra, as Epaminondas repeated his
tactics from before. In addition, Agesilaos, the Spartan king, had
underestimated Epaminondas.
As his army had arrived to Mantinea,
first, he had them at ease, thinking that the Thebans would not attack
the first day they arrived because they had made a longer march. But
Epaminondas saw this and sprung. He again formed up in oblique order,
had his cavalry drive the enemy cavalry and light infantry from the
field, then attacked the Spartan left flank. As this occurred, he
moved up with his deeper left and smashed through the right flank of
the Spartans. However, Epaminondas was killed in the last stage of the
battle, and Thebes lost its nerve, so it did not pursue the fleeing
Spartans.
His brilliant tactics in war were studied by both Philip II and Alexander the Great.
Great capacity for organizing men and handling them on the battlefield.
Genius in the military ar, breaking away from the conventions of the old-style Laconian drillmasters.
No personal ambitions, except to serve his country.
Under his leadership, the Theban army never plundered.
Responsible for the breaking of the Spartan Hegemony.
- Wolcott3W7@aol.com 04/08/01
-------------------------------------------
As
an interesting side note, during this period, Philip II of Macedonia
was a hostage in Thebes, and he learned Theban tactics and organization
directly from Epaminondas, much like young Gustavus Adolphus learned
Dutch tactics and organization from Maurice of Nassau during his stay
there. In both cases, the student eventually became greater than the
master. Id probably put Epaminondas somewhere in the lower fifty. He
only fought two major battles, but they were against the Spartans, and
one can't ask for a higher quality opponent in any age.
- Statement by Epaminondas to an envoy of King Artaxerxes of Peria, who tried to bride him.
There
is no need for money in this matter: for if the king desires what is
for the good of the Thebans, I am ready to do it for nothing; if
otherwise, he has not silver and gold enough to move me, for I would
not exchange the riches of the whole world for my love for my country.
You, who have tried me thus without knowing my character, and who have
thought me like yourself I do not blameand I forgive you; but quit the
city at once, lest you corrupt others, though unable to corrupt me.
- Epaminondas, on him not having any children.
I
cannot want for posterity. For I leave behind me a daughter,---the
victory of Leuctra, that must of necessity not merely survive me, but
be immortal!
Alcibiades (c.450404 B.C.)
Athenian statesman and general.
Son of Cleinias and Deinomache, member of the Alcmaeonidae family (mother's side).
Ward of Pericles.
Devoted attendant of Socrates.
Participated at the battle of Potidaea. 432 B.C.
POTIDAEA 432 B.C.
================================ Archestratus (3,000 Hoplites, 70 Athenian ships) vs Aristeus (2,800 Hoplites)
One
of the catalysts for the Pelopnnesian War. Potidaea, originally paying
tribute to Athens now was requested, by Athens, to destroy her
defensive walls and expel the Corinthian ambassadors for fear of
Potidaea revolting. Under the command of Archestratus, an Athenian
fleet of thirty ships carrying 1,000 hoplites was sent to Portidaea
(originally intended for a fight against the Macedonians).
Negotiations broke down in Athens and Sparta promised Potidaea to fight
for their revolt against Athens. Upon arriving, Archestratus attacked
the Macedonian army that was already there. Under Aristeus, an
Corinthian army of 1,600 hoplites and 400 light troops were sent to
relieve Potidaea. The Athenian force was reinforced with 2,000
hoplites and 40 ships under the command of Callias, head of a noted
Athenian family. Indecisive actions, the Macedonian and Athenian
armies disengaged, both moved towards Potidaea. Perdiccas, leading the
Macedonians, and 200 cavalry joined the Corinthian army. When the two
armies met, the Athenians were victorious with the exception of the
wing that fought against Aristeus. Aristeus, with the remaining
Corinthian troops, retreated and hap hazardously returned to Potidaea.
Meanwhile, a small force of Potidaeans arrived to fight the Athenian
army. They were quickly defeated. The battle took place, but the
Macedonian cavalry never joined battle.
300 Corinthian/Potidaean casualties
150 Athenians (including Callias)
Alcibiades and Socrates were among the Athenian soldiers in this battle; Socrates saved Alcibiades' life there.
Again,
the Athenians were reinforced by 1,600 hoplites, under Phormino, son of
Asopius, a noted Athenian general. Counter-wall operations commenced
on both sides. The Athenians were successful in cutting Potidaea from
the coast with a naval blockade. These events were took some time and
a declaration of war between Sparta and Athens when they failed to come
to a compromise. Though this campaign was successful, it depleted much
of the Athenian treasury maintaining the blockade.
Delium 424 B.C.
================================== Pagondas (18,500 Boeotians) vs Hippocrates (9,000 Athenians)
The
Athenians carved out a plan to attack Thebes, a Sparta ally.
Hippocrates would attack Boeotia from the northeast at Delium;
Demosthenes from the south. Demosthenes set sail too early and landed
at Siphae. Since he wasnt strong enough with the force he had,
Demosthenes retreated. Hippocrates arrived in Boeotia and immediately
began to fortify Delium. The fortifications were completed and
Hippocrates sent the rest of the army back to Athens. The commander of
the Boeotian forces, Pagondas of Thebes, convinced his troops to attack
Delium, despite the fact that the garrison poised no threat. The
Boeotian army consisted of 7,000 hoplites, 1,000 cavalry, 500 peltast,
and 10,000 light troops. The troops from Thebes formed the right wing,
the center; men from Haliartia, Coronaea, and Copaea, the left wing;
Thespiae, Tanagra, and Orchomenia (Locrian troops would later join this
force). Hippocrates joined the Athenian force. When he was giving his
speech to his troops, the Boeotians unexpectedly attacked. Fierce
fighting took place in the center of both armies. The Boeotian left
wing became surrounded and defeated, but Pagondas supported his left
wing using his cavalry which defeated the Athenians. At about this
time, the Boeotian right wing became victorious. With both wings gone,
the Athenian center fled. Most of the Athenians fled to the Delium
fort. The Boeotians made no notable advances on Delium for two weeks.
A Corinthian force of 2,000 hoplites arrived on site. By this time,
the Boeotians had constructed a type of flamethrowing device. The
weapon was used against the fort at Delium and forced the Athenians to
flee. NOTE: Some Athenians soldiers included Socrates and
Alcibiades. Alcibiades saved Socrates (this act impressed Hipponicus
whom bestowed upon him his daughter, Hipparete).
1,200 Athenians casualties (including Hippocrates)
500 Boeotians casualties NOTE:
Demosthenes arrived at Sicyon, but this time he was too late. Unable
to locate Hippocrates force, he encountered the combined forces of the
Boeotians and Corinthians. He was quickly defeated.
Became a proponent for the continuation of war against Sparta after the death of Cleon. 422 B.C.
Involved in politics after the Peace of Nicias. 421 B.C.
Encouraged an alliance against Sparta.
Mantinea 418 B.C.
==================================
Agis II (4,200 Spartans) vs. Mantineans/Argos/Athens (4,000)
The
Argives attacked the Epidaurians, an ally of Sparta and traditional
enemy of Argos in 419 B.C. One of the kings of Sparta, Agis II, made
an unpopular 4-month truce with Argos. The Athenians, warring with
Sparta, found a way to make the Argives break their truce with Sparta.
Agis II, with a Sparta army and troops from Arcadia, Corinth, Boeotia,
Phocis, and Locris, invaded mantinea, near Argos. The Argive army
prepared itself for battle and formed a defensive position on a hill,
Agis was persuaded by his advisors not to assault the hill. He
retreated and starting laying waste to the land and irrigation works.
Meanwhile, the Argive army marched near a Temple of Heracles and
surprised the Spartans the next day. Brasidas (not the famous
Brasidas), the Thracians, and the Sciritae (an elite unit of Spartan
troops) formed the left wing, the Spartans, Arcadians, and Maenalians
in the centre, and the Tegeans on the right wing. The Argive lines
were formed by the Mantineans on the right, the Argives in the centre,
and the Athenians on the left. Each right flank of the opposing army
began to outflank the other's left. Agis unsuccessfully tried to
strengthen his line. The Mantineans rushed into the gap created by
these movements. Despite the opportunist situation, the Argives and
Athenians fled immediately. The Mantineans retreated soon after. In
417 B.C., a truce was signed by Argos and Sparta which encouraged an
alliance against other hostile city-states.
1,100 Argive casualties 300 Spartan casualties
Strong promoter of the Sicilian campaign. 415 B.C.
Nicias, Lamachus, Alcibiades led this Athenian force.
For want of allies, he proposed allying with the cities of Selinus and Syracuse. He was overruled by Nicias.
He was summoned back to Athens, leaving Nicias to his fate in Sicily.
Accused
of mutilating the statues of Hermes, Alcibiades sailed for Athens, but
diverted his ship to Argos, a Spartan ally, after he discovered he was
condemned to death and his property confiscated.
Became an advisor to King Agis I of Sparta, who later would be victorious against Athens. NOTE:
He persuaded King Agis I to send Gylippus to Syracus and fortify
Decelea at Attica. He successfully encourages Chios to revolt against
Athens. And concluded an alliance with the Persian satrap Tissaphernes.
Lost favor with King Agis I and fled Persia where he became protected under Tissaphernes. 412 B.C. NOTE: Seduced and impregnated the Spartan Queen, Agis II, whom later orders his execution. NOTE:
Influenced the Persian satrap Tissaphernes to avoid the conflict
between Sparta and Athens and allow them to wear each other out.
Failing to attach himself to the oligarth Peisander, he hooked up with their opponents whom had a fleet at Samos.
A political shift in Athens (fall of the Four Hundred), Alcibiades was recalled at the request of Thrasybulus. 411 B.C.
Defeated the Spartan fleet at Abydos. NOTE:
Not sure if Abydos and Cynossema are the same battles. They appear in
the same year, however, no information is available about the battle at
Abydos (the Cynossema battle has ships coming from Abydos).
Defeats the Peloponnesian fleet off Cyzicus. 410 B.C.
CYZICUS 410 B.C.
================================== Alcibiades vs. Spartan fleet (commander not found)
A
small-scale naval battle that was decisive for the Athenians.
Apparently, Alcibiades sent a decoy fleet that spurred the Spartan
fleet. The decoy ships then moved towards the main Athenian fleet
which manhandled the Spartans. The outcome, however, had little effect
and the Spartans quickly rebuilt their fleet.
Recovers Chalcedon and Byzantium. 408 B.C.
Upon returning to Athens, he discovered all the accounts against him were repealed.
Appointed general with unconditional powers. 407 B.C.
Failed at Andros (no details available).
His lieutenant Antiochus was defeated by the new Spartan commander, Lysander at Notium. 406 B.C.
Notium (or Ephesus) 406 B.C.
==================================
Antiochus (75 triremes) vs. Lysander (90 triremes)
In
407 B.C., Lysander, who was appointed as navarch, commander of the
Spartan fleet, sailed west to Ephesus. Establishing a base with 90
triremes, he established diplomatic relations with Cyrus, a Persian
prince. NOTE: Cyrus agreed to provide funds for the Spartan
rowers. Alcibiades, awaiting for an opportunity to fight with the
Spartan fleet, brought his fleet to Notium. With Lysander refusing to
engage in battle, Alcibiades sailed north with a few ships to assist
Thrasybulus in the siege of Phocaea. NOTE: Doing this was an
unorthodox action. He is later criticized by both anicent and modern
tacticians for this action. Antiochus was ordered by Alcibiades not to
attack. Antiochus choose to ignore Alcibiades orders. Antiochus
sailed out with a decoy fleet of 10 triremes. His plan was to draw out
the Peloponnesians then ambush them with the main fleet. A similiar
tactic at Cyzicus. However, Antiochus' ship is sunk by a sudden attack
by the Spartans. The remaining nine ships flee towards Notium. At
Notium, the Athenian fleet is caught unprepared by the attack. The
Spartans sailed back to Ephesus. Alcibiades lifts the siege of Phocaea
upon hearing word of the attack. Despite his efforts he still failed
to bring Lysander out to battle. Notium was Alcibiades downfall. He
was removed from office (as well as Thrasybulus). Because of term
limits, Lysander was replaced by Callicratidas.
7 Athenian triremes sunk.
15 Athenian triremes captured. NOTE:
Donald Kagan suggest that the most important effect of the battle on
the Athenian side was the removal from command of Thrasybulus, the
Athenian who planned all the naval victories of 411 and 410 B.C.
Alcibiades was dismissed from command and exiled.
Moved to the western shore of the Hellespont.
Attempted to warn the Athenian fleet at Aegospotamos whom ignored him and were defeated. 405 B.C.
Took refuge with Pharnabazus in Phrygia.
Initiated
plans to aid Artaxerxes against Sparta, but the Persian satrap
Pharnabazus, upon advise of Lysander, had Alcibiades assassinated. 404 B.C.
Wu Wang - the founding Emperor of Chou dynasty (Last of Chinese Federal dynasties before the total unification of Q'in 221 BC). But his kill as a military commander was not that famous compared to other Chinese generals/kings during the Spring and Atumn (770-476 BC), and Warring States eras (475-221 BC).
The famous Sun Wu (Sun Tzu) was the commander of Wu kingdom around 500 BC during Spring and Atumn, though there were other generals who performed more stunning battles than Sun.
Wu Wang...as a military commander was not that famous compared to other
Chinese generals/kings during the Spring and Atumn (770-476 BC), and
==============================
Could you be more precise? Possibly give names during the 770-475 B.C. timeperiod?
The famous Sun Wu (Sun Tzu) was the commander of Wu kingdom around
500 BC during Spring and Atumn, though there were other generals who
performed more stunning battles than Sun.
============================== I actually don't mind repeating myself so... Could you be more precise? Possibly give names... ?
Hello. I am most interested in what you speak of; Epaminodas most of all, since he was all a man-of-war should be. I should be much obliged if you would point out some books or other articles about peloponessian war and later, especially books of Epaminodas.
Benedict: "I should be much obliged
if you would point out some books or other articles about peloponessian
war and later, especially books of Epaminodas."
=============================== Without a doubt, Epaminodas is a source of study. His
destruction of the Spartan army at Leuctra paved the way for Theban
dominance. Unfortunately, his death paved the way for the
Macedonians. Neither Sparta or Thebans was in any position to
compete against the Macedonians.
Unfortunately, books I do have that talk about Epaminodas are not specialized on him; just in that general time period.
Benedict: "BTW, that's one impresive knowledge of history."
=============================== Benedict, don't confuse simple research with knowledge. But
who am I; swiping at compliments! I'll take'em! THANKS!!
Conon ( ? ? ? - ? ? ? ) ==========================
Athenian General Took command of the Athenian navy after Alcibiades was recalled. 406 B.C. Defeated by the Spartan fleet at Mytilene. August 406 B.C. NOTE: No information about this battle. Briefly blockaded at Mytilene until rescued following the Athenian victory at Arginusae. Lysander beat the Athenian navy to Hellespont and occupied Lampsacus. 404 B.C. Situated his base at Aegospotami while being supplied from Sestus. Advised by Alcibiades to move his fleet to Sestus, but ignored it. NOTE:
Alcibiades' plan wouldn't necessarily have worked either. If the
fleet moved to Sestus, Lysander could escape and cut the Athenian food
supply.
Aegospotami 404 B.C. ========================== Lysander (? ? ?) vs. Conon (180 triremes) On the fifth day, Lysander scouts reported that the Athenian crews disembarked to retrieve their meals and supplies. NOTE:
This could have been a situation where betrayal was involved.
Lysander ordered an immediate attack. The Athenian fleet was
completely caught off guard and captured with little resistance.
Nine Athenian ships, including Conon's vessel, successfully
escaped. This battle proved to be the Peloponnesian-winning
battle as it dislodged the Athenians from controlling the sea and they
could no longer supply themselves by sea. All Athenians were executed. Peloponnesian losses; light.
Fearing Athenian judgement, sailed to Cyprus. Spartan and Persian alliance soon spoiled. Accepts the position of naval command offered by Perisan emperor Artaxerxes. 397 B.C. Sends a small portion of the Poenician fleet to Caria. Briefly blockaded, but rescued by Pharnabazus and Tissaphernes. Proceeded to Rhodes. Replaced the Rhodes pro-Spartan oligarchy with a democracy; gathered supplies. Spartans sent a fleet under Pisander against the Phoenician fleet.
Cnidus 394 B.C. =================== Conon/Pharnabazus (90 triremes) vs. Peisander (85 triremes) Apparently the Spartan navy
encountered elements of the Persian fleet and engaged them with
success. The Persian fleet arrived in full force and was able to
put the Spartan fleet to flight. This battle effectively ended
the Spartan's dominance on the Aegean sea. Heavy Spartan casaulties 35 Spartan triremes were destroyed 50 Spartan triremes were captured Peisander was killed.
Allowed to retain part of the fleet, returned to Athens. Money received he gave to Athens to reconstruction of the Piraeus long walls. Sent as a Athenian delegate to oppose the proposition of Spartan abandoning their cities in Asia Minor. Satrap Tiribazus imprisoned Conon and the other delegates, believing this was an attempt to reclaim their empire. Tiribazus was later replaced by Struthus. Satrap Struthus allowed Conon to escape. Died soon afterwards in Cyprus. Timotheus, his son, later became a prominent general.
Agesilaus (444 - 359 B.C.)
Spartan king
Born in the Eurypontid family, one of the two royal dynasties of Sparta.
Second son of king Archidamus II.
Born with one leg shorter than the other.
Exempted from Spartan training program that Spartan boys traditionally go through.
Natural leader
Obeyed orders enthusiastically, without compulsion.
Older brother, Agis, was king from 427 to 400 B.C.
Agis, convinced by Leotychidas, the bastard son of Alcibiades, suggested he replace him.
Lysander, claiming the boy was illegitimate, offered Agesilaus as an alternative. NOTE: Lysander also felt he could manipulate Agesilaus.
Agesilaus, unlike his Spartan king predecessors, easily made friends with the ephors and the Senate.
Sent Thibron, a Spartan general, and an army of 11,300 strong to
protect the Greek towns against the Persian satrap Tissaphernes.
An alliance with Spartan and Egypt, under Amrtaeus, the new pharaoh, was established. NOTE: This campaign, which was not well coordinated, was led by Dercyllidas.
An armistice was concluded between Sparta and Persia when the armies met near Magnesia. 397 B.C. NOTE: The agreement was that the Spartan army would leave and
the Persians would accept Spartan rule over the Ionian
city-states. However, the Spartans soon discovered that the
Persians were building a fleet. This could only mean that the
Persians meant to challenge their control over the Aegean Sea.
Some of the Ionian cities were in open revolt due to the Persians initiatives.
Upon Lysander's advice, Agesilaus prepares to invade Persia with 8,000 men.
His offering to the gods at Theban-controlled Aulis was interrupted and spoiled by Theban priests. 396 B.C. NOTE: Agesilaus' strong hatred for Theban is said to be from this incident
Landed at Ephesus.
With Lysander being quite popular here, Agesilaus became jealous of Lysander's popularity and began to undermine him. NOTE: He opposed any advise Lysander had to offer and supported anything Lysander opposed.
Finally, Agesilaus appointed Lysander to Hellespont.
Concluded a truce with the satrap Tissaphernes; this enabled him to focus on the other satrap, Pharnabazus. NOTE: The satrap Tisaphernes signed the truce because he was
waiting for reinforcements. Initially he appeased Agesilaus by
claiming all of the Greek cities in Ionia will be free of Persian
control, however, he stiffened resistance when he felt confident with
the Persian army raised.
Glad to have peace spurned by Tisaphernes, Agesilaus deceived him by
strucking north into Phrygia instead of Caria, as Tisaphernes had
anticipated.
Bad omens during sacrifices convinced Agesilaus to head back to Ephesus and increase his cavalry. NOTE: Auctioned off the slaves he had captured in Phrygia.
Publicly stated he will attack east into Lydia. 395 B.C.
Tisaphernes aware of this being a possible trick, guarded Caria.
Agesilaus invaded Lydia and headed for the capital city of Sardis.
Tisaphernes rushed his cavalry and attacked the Spartan looters.
Agesilaus directed his whole army against the Persian cavalry, who retreated.
The Spartans pursued and captured the Persian camp.
Tisaphernes is executed for his incompetence during the campaign.
His head is offered to Agesilaus by the new satrap, Tithraustes, as a
peace offering. NOTE: The Spartans were also offered a large sum of money.
Agesilaus slyly accepts the monetary gifts saying this will pay for his expenses to leave Lydia and return to Phrygia. NOTE: It was dishonorable to Spartans to accept bribes from their enemy.
The Spartans gave Agesilaus the unprecedented status of commander both the army and the navy. NOTE: Appointed his brother-in-law commander of the navy; a
mistake of giving a man a position over more experienced men.
Became popular with the Greeks in Ionia for his simple standards of living.
More cities in Asia Minor revolted against the Persians.
Raided the region controlled by the satrap Pharnabazus. NOTE: Under the agreement with Tithraustes, the Spartans would attack Pharnabazus instead of him.
Advised by Sparta to focus on the lower west of Asia Minor to release Persian control of that region. NOTE: Which was a sound strategy.
Unable to follow this strategy as Pharnabazus was not willing to come to terms.
Initiated plans to strike deeper into Persia along the Royal road.
Progress was slow as he was unable to capture towns (Spartans were not noted for their conduct in siege warfare).
Word was received that Thebes and Athens (whom both might have been persuaded by Persia) was at open war with Sparta.
Conon, the new Persian commander, captured Rhodes; enabling the Persians to work in the Aegean Sea.
He leaves Asia Minor. 394 B.C.
The Corinthian War had started: the Boeotians, Corinthians, Athenians, and the Persian navy fought against the Spartans. NOTE: This marked the beginning of professionalism in the conduct of war as both sides used mercenaries.
Marched through Thrace; victorious in numerous battles (including a battle against the Boeotians near Coronea). NOTE: Another noteable battle took place after the Spartan
fleet had been destroyed. Despite this being a bad omen,
Agesilaus celebrated pretending that was a victory. In the
battle, the Spartans were victorious against the Thebans.
Lysander had infected the city of Sparta with conspiracies. His
death relieved many problems. Agesilaus gave the other
conspirators positions away from Sparta.
Marched against the Acarnanians, whom had taken farm lands from the
Achaeans, and they quickly settled on liberal terms. 389
B.C.
With the Athenians rebuilding their walls and the Persians constantly
raiding the Spartan coast, Agesilaus offered peace terms to the
Persians; abandoning the Greek cities of Ionians.
The Spartan general, Phoebidas, captured a Thebes castle. 382 B.C.
This act was considered disgraceful to the Spartans, but Agesilaus
defended Phoebidas, who would have been executed. The castle
remained in Spartan hands.
Thebes revolted against the Spartan garrison. 379 B.C.
Agesilaus invaded, but the Theban army did not offer battle. 378 B.C.
He also defended the Spartan general, Sphodrias, who broke the peace in the failed attempt to take the Athenian port. NOTE: Sphodrias, a son of Agesilaus' friend, was spared as
well. The Spartan population felt contempt for Agesilaus'
judgement and justice.
Theban revolted again. Agesilaus again invaded, but, again, was
unable to initiate siege warfare upon the enemy. 377 B.C.
Sparta's allies complained about the personal battle Agesilaus was leading their troops against Thebes. NOTE: All Greek cities accepted a peace treaty with Sparta
(Athens felt content after receiving parts of Boeotia. 374
B.C. Epaminondas [q.v.] and other Thebes delegates failed to hammer out a peace treaty with Agesilaus. 371 B.C.
Twenty days later, Spartans marched against Thebans.
LEUCTRA 371 B.C.
============================== Epaminondas/Pelopidas (9,000) vs. Cleombrotos I (12,000)
King Cleombrotos stopped at Leuctra, near Thebes. Epaminondas
convinced his civilian-soldiers that they must fight the
Spartans. Cleombrotos had his peltasts cover his flanks of his
phalanx. Epaminondas positioned the Theban phalanx at a slight
slant, with the left wing closest to the enemy. He also
concentrated his men on the left side of the Theban phalanx, revealing
a weak center and right wing. Epaminondas decided to 'shield
press' against the enemy instead of spear fighting. In essence,
the Theban left wing would push and overwhelm the Spartan right
wing. Epaminondas used what was left of his peltasts to cover the
right wing while the cavalry and 'Sacred Band' protected the left
wing. Cleombrotos orders his cavalry to attack. The clash
between the Spartan cavalry and Theban cavalry is undecisive until
Pelopidas, leading the 'Sacred Band', smashes the Spartan
cavalry. The Theban cavalry attack the Spartan peltasts as the
main Theban left wing smashes into the right side of the Spartan
phalanx. Cleombrotos is killed and the Spartan peltasts were
unable to defend the phalanx's right flank. The 'Sacred Band' and
cavalry hit the right flank of the Spartans as the whole wing is pushed
back. The Spartan allies, primarily on the left wing of the
phalanx, loss morale and retreat. It is the first time a Spartan
army is defeated by a smaller force. Theban forces were persuaded
not to pursue the fleeing army.
2,000 Spartan casualties (including Cleombrotos)
300 Theban casualties
The Spartan coalition soon disintegrates.
Theban army 70,000 strong, led by Epaminondas, invaded the territory of Sparta. 370 B.C.
Agesilaus' began operations of fortifying the city.
A brief coup inside Sparta was quickly put down. NOTE: The conspirators were executed without a due process.
The Theban army left and the siege at Sparta ended. NOTE: No one knows why the Thebans left. Speculation goes
from winter, to a high desertion rate, to Agesilaus bribing them off.
Gave up his military duties to his son, Archidamus.
Joined forces with the Persian satrap Ariobarzanes, who was revolting against the great king of Persia. 367 B.C.
Had to return when Thebans invaded the peloponnese, preventing the capture of Sparta. 362 B.C.
After the battle of Mantinea, Sparta made peace with Thebans and Athens.
League of Greek City-States was formed, but Sparta, not accepting the loss of Messenia, could not join.
Hired to lead a mercenary unit in the Egyptian army, under the rebel Egyptian pharaoh named Tachos. 360 B.C.
Traveled to Egypt. 360 B.C.
Tachos was very disrespectful to Agesilaus.
When the army reached Phoenicia, Tachos' nephew, Nectanabis II, revolted and took most of the army, Agesilaus joined Nectanabis. NOTE: Tachos fled.
Refused to be bribe by the opposing king, however Nectanabis did not trust Agesilaus.
Not taking Agesilaus' advise to attack the king's inexperienced army, Nectanabis put his army in the city and endured the siege. The Siege in Egypt - The enemy built a deep ditch and a high
wall all around the city. Agesilaus informed the king to attack
as soon as it was almost completed (the enemies' own walls would
protect their flanks). Agesilaus' mercenaries broke through and
rolled up the enemy flanks around the wall.
Received a large reward for his contribution to Nectanabis' victory.
Returned home, but died during the trip.
Agesilaus was 84-years old when he died.
Spartan king for 41 years.
Received an honorable burial in Sparta.
Pelopidas (? ? ? - 364 BC)
====================================
Theban general
Son of Hippoclus
Born into a prominent family of Thebes.
At
the battle of Mantinea, Pelopidas, due to several wounds, fainted.
Epaminondas stayed with Pelopidas and fought off theives as well as the
enemy. NOTE: In essence, Epaminondas saved Pelopidas' life until help arrived. 384 B.C.
Fled after the oligarchical party allowed the Spartan force to enter Thebes.
Coordinated the assassination of the leaders of the oligarchical party. 379 B.C. NOTE:
This assassination was very elaborate; some events included penetrating
the guardposts, infiltrating a party as female dancers. And at times,
just blunt; knocking on a door until someone answers; once opened,
rushed in and killed all who opposed them.
With a small group of resistance fighters, threw out the 1,500-strong Spartan garrison. NOTE: After an initial siege, led by Pelopidas, the garrison agreed to leave. NOTE: The Spartan commanders of the garrison were executed by the Spartan army that was on its way to relieve the castle.
Elected boeotarch
A Spartan army invades Boeotia. NOTE:
With Athens refusing to join Thebes against Sparta, Pelopidas devises a
plan. He sends a merchant to the Spartan army led by Sphodrias. This
merchant convinces Sphodrias that, for the greater glory of Sparta,
Athens port could easily be taken at this time as the Athenians would
least expect the attack since Sparta is at war with Thebes. Sphodrias
moves towards Athens. Athens, suddenly alerted by Thebes informants,
successfully defend the port. In 378 B.C., Athens joins Thebes against
Sparta.
Pelopidas, with only the 300-strong Sacred Band, marches out to confronts a larger Spartan force.
Tegyra 375 B.C.
Pelopidas (300) vs. Spartans (900)
No details are recorded. Only that after a scout had arrived in a panic state and said "We have fallen into our enemy's hands." Pelopidas quickly responded by says, "And why not they into ours?"
The Sacred Band decisively defeated the Spartans. It is the first
recorded event that a Spartan army was defeated by a smaller one.
No casualty numbers available.
Sparta concludes a peace treaty with all of the city-states except for Thebes. 371 B.C.
Sparta sends an army 10,000 strong under Cleobrotos I.
Pelopidas, under Epaminondas, led the Sacred Band at the battle of Leuctra.
LEUCTRA 371 B.C.
==============================
Epaminondas/Pelopidas (9,000) vs. Cleombrotos I (12,000)
King
Cleombrotos stopped at Leuctra, near Thebes. Epaminondas convinced his
civilian-soldiers that they must fight the Spartans. Cleombrotos had
his peltasts cover his flanks of his phalanx. Epaminondas positioned
the Theban phalanx at a slight slant, with the left wing closest to the
enemy. He also concentrated his men on the left side of the Theban
phalanx, revealing a weak center and right wing. Epaminondas decided
to 'shield press' against the enemy instead of spear fighting. In
essence, the Theban left wing would push and overwhelm the Spartan
right wing. Epaminondas used what was left of his peltasts to cover
the right wing while the cavalry and 'Sacred Band'
protected the left wing. Cleombrotos orders his cavalry to attack.
The clash between the Spartan cavalry and Theban cavalry is undecisive
until Pelopidas, leading the 'Sacred Band', smashes the
Spartan cavalry. The Theban cavalry attack the Spartan peltasts as the
main Theban left wing smashes into the right side of the Spartan
phalanx. Cleombrotos is killed and the Spartan peltasts were unable to
defend the phalanx's right flank. The 'Sacred Band' and
cavalry hit the right flank of the Spartans as the whole wing is pushed
back. The Spartan allies, primarily on the left wing of the phalanx,
loss morale and retreat. Theban forces were persuaded not to pursue
the fleeing army.
2,000 Spartan casualties (including Cleombrotos)
300 Theban casualties
Under Epaminondas and Pelopidas, the Theban army marched into the Peloponnese, freeing the Peloponnesian cities from Sparta.
Freeing the Helots from Sparta.
Their army swelled to 70,000 as former Spartan allies joined the Theban army.
Reasons never known or explained, Theban army spares Sparta and returns home.
Upon
their return, Epaminondas and Pelopidas were brought up on charges of
continuing command despite the expiration of their term as commanding
generals(they were acquitted). NOTE: Epaminondas took this event in stride, however, it did not settle well with Pelopidas.
Sent to assist the Thessalians against the tyrant Alexander of Pherae 369 B.C.
Entered Thessaly and occupied larissa, the principal city.
Alexander quickly submitted, but proved too difficult to persuade to become a more gentlier leader.
After the campaign against Alexander of pherae, led the arbitration between Alexander II of Macedon and Ptolemy of Alorus.
Part of the negotiation, Pelopidas took hostages from both sides to cement an agreement. NOTE: One of the Philip II(q.v.), Alexander II's brother, and later king himself; father of Alexander the Great(q.v.).
The talks broke down when Ptolemy of Alorus murdered Alexander II. 368 B.C.
Pelopidas raised a mercenary force in Macedonia to deal with this trouble.
On the battlefield, Ptolemy bribed Pelopidas' army and they abandoned him.
Despite having an army, a favorable peace with Ptolemy was made. NOTE: Ptolemy volunteered to give up the kingship of Macedonia and give it to Philip II.
Marched to Pharsalus to deal with the deserting mercenaries. NOTE: Many of the mercenaries had family and property there.
Upon his arrival at Pharsalus, an army led by Alexander of Pherae approached.
Under the presumption of prestige, Pelopidas approached Alexander's camp to hear out Alexander.
Alexander immediately ordered his arrest and captured Pharsalus. 368 B.C. NOTE:
Held prisoner for a year until rescued by a Theban force under
Epaminondas. Epaminondas did not want to escalate the situation and
instead of fighting Alexander, asked for Pelopidas in return for other
captives. The negotiations were successful.
Went to Persia as a Theban ambassador to counteract the attempts of either the Spartan or Athenian ambassadors.
Alexander of Pherae pressuring Thessaly, Pelopidas led a force to stop Alexander of Pherae.
Due to leave for Thessaly, the Theban force of 7,000 panicked when an eclipse of the sun took place. June 13, 364
Pelopidas left with only 300 volunteer cavalrymen.
CYNOSCEPHALAE 364 B.C.
=============================== Pelopidas (2000) vs. Alexander (4000)
Pelopidas,
reinforced by a small contigent force from Thessaly, attacked and
successfully disloged Alexander of Pherae's army from their position.
Pelopidas wishing to do personal combat with Alexander who was trying
to rally his forces, he rushed him. Pelopidas became isolated from his
main force and killed by the tyrant's guards. The Theban force
protected his body, and with renewed anger, drove the enemy from the
field. Technically, the battle was a Theban victory, however the loss
of Pelopidas was a great loss.
3,000 Pheraeans casaulties
unknown Theban casualties; presumably light.
Pelopidas killed.
NOTE:
The next year, Epaminondas avenged this defeat with a victory over
Alexander, who was resigned to limited rule to Pherae and forced to
join the Boeotian league. Alexander was later killed by his wife's
brothers.
Pelopidas had a wife, and two children.
CONGO NOTE:
Epaminondas and Pelopidas had a unique friendship in times when power
often leads to personal ambition, greed or jealously. They applauded
each other's successes and had a common respect of virtue to the
prosperity of their city-state, Theban. Epaminondas was more of a
thinker while Pelopidas excelled in athletics. Still, despite their
differences, when Pelopidas could never persuade Epaminondas to accept
his charity, Pelopidas joined Epaminondas in his simple way of life,
despite the fortune, that he had inherited, that he could have spent on
himself.
King Artaxerxes of Pelopidas
============================
"This
is the man, who beat those Spartans who only a short time before were
about to fight with the Great King himself in the heart of his empire."
Plutarch of Pelopidas's final act in battle
============================
"A
general who risks his own life endangers not only himself but also his
soldiers, whose life depends on his safety. When the reward justifies
the risk, he should not hesitate, but if the most he might accomplish
is what an ordinary soldier could do just as well, a general should not
put his person in jeopardy."
Epaminondas (circa 418 B.C. - 362 B.C.)
=================================================
Theban general and statesman Epanminondas is a member of Congo's Top 100 Commanders of All Time.
Son of Polymnis
Born from an impovished scion of the old Theban noble family.
Received exceptional education from teacher. NOTE:
Especially Lysis of Tarentum, known for his skills in philosophical
studies. As well as philosophical conversations with Theban Simias and
the Tarentine Spintharos, both pupils of Socrates.
Fought a skirmish at Mantinea. 385 B.C. NOTE: This fight is not recorded.
Passing
through Boeotia, the Spartan commander, Phoebidas, took advantage of
the problems within Thebes and seized the Cadmea (the Theban
acropolis). 382 B.C. NOTE: The event would turn Thebes against Sparta and paved the way fo Theban victories and the destruction of Spartan power.
This event forced the anti-Spartan party to flee.
Viewed harmless, Epaminondas was allowed to remain despite his association with the party.
A revolt led by Pelopidas which included such events as infiltrating
the city and assassinations took part in a single night. 379 B.C.
Epaminondas led a group of young men; broke into armories and took weapons.
Receiving assistance from a group of Athenian hoplites, Epaminondas surrounded the Spartan-held Cadmea.
The Spartan garrison abandoned Cadmea (the commanders would later be executed by the Spartans for this cowardly act).
The pro-Spartan party was also allowed to surrender; however they would later be killed by the insurgents.
Agesilaus
II, the Spartan king, sent an army to recapture Thebes. However, the
Spartans could never get the Theban army on the battlefield. Lacking
siege techniques they
abandoned the thought of sieging the city and ravaged the countryside before returning to Sparta.
A peace conference faultered when Athens and Sparta resumed fighting. 375 B.C.
Sparta would invaded three times in the next seven years. NOTE: The skirmishes in these invasions brought confidence among the Theban warriors.
Elected a Boeotarch. circa 373 B.C.
Captured the Sikyonian town of Phoebia. NOTE:
Did not kill Boeotian fugitives as directed under the Theban law, but
assigned them new nationality of their choosing and set them free.
With Pelopidas, designed a Boeotian foreign policy.
Represented the Boeotians and Thebes in the Peace Conference of 371. 371 B.C. NOTE:
Athens and Sparta, both war-weary, initiated this conference and
numerous city-states were invited to join. Negotiations broke down
between Sparta and Thebes when Agesilaus refused to allow Thebes to
represent all the cities of Boeotia; stating they should be
independent. Epaminondas countered that the cities of Laconia should
be free from Spartan rule if that is to be the case. All the cities
signed a peace document with Sparta; Sparta and Thebes prepared for war.
The other Spartan king, Cleombrotus, headed an army in Phocis; marched to Boeotia.
Avoiding the mountain passes, Cleombrotus entered Boeotian territory from an unexpected direction. NOTE: The Boeotian army had set a trap for Cleombrotus in the mountain passes.
Cleombrotus seized a fort and captured several triremes.
Cleombrotus, with his 10,000 hoplites, camped at Leuctra, in the territoroy of Thespiae.
Epaminondas confronted the Spartan army with 6,000 Boeotians, with a cavalry that was far superior to any Peloponnesian cavalry.
LEUCTRA 371 B.C.
=================================================== Epaminondas/Pelopidas (9,000) vs. Cleombrotos I (12,000)
King
Cleombrotos stopped at Leuctra, near Thebes. Epaminondas convinced his
civilian-soldiers that they must fight the Spartans. Cleombrotos had
his peltasts cover his flanks of his phalanx. Epaminondas positioned
the Theban phalanx at a slight slant, with the left wing closest to the
enemy. He also concentrated his men on the left side of the Theban
phalanx, revealing a weak center and right wing. Epaminondas decided
to 'shield press' against the enemy instead of spear fighting. In
essence, the Theban left wing would push and overwhelm the Spartan
right wing. Epaminondas used what was left of his peltasts to cover
the right wing while the cavalry and 'Sacred Band'
protected the left wing. Cleombrotos orders his cavalry to attack.
The clash between the Spartan cavalry and Theban cavalry is undecisive
until Pelopidas, leading the 'Sacred Band', smashes the
Spartan cavalry. The Theban cavalry attack the Spartan peltasts as the
main Theban left wing smashes into the right side of the Spartan
phalanx. Cleombrotos is killed and the Spartan peltasts were unable to
defend the phalanx's right flank. The 'Sacred Band' and
cavalry hit the right flank of the Spartans as the whole wing is pushed
back. The Spartan allies, primarily on the left wing of the phalanx,
loss morale and retreat. Theban forces were persuaded not to pursue
the fleeing army. NOTE: First known battle to have a deep column of attack and a refused flank.
2,000 Spartan casualties (including Cleombrotos)
400 of the 700 Spartiates were killed; a tremendous blow to Sparta's ability to fight.
300 Theban casualties
Busied himself with the consolidation of the Boeotian confederacy.
Compelled Orchomenus to join the league.
Agesilaus II, sent a Spartan force to put an end to the unruly Mantinea. 370 B.C.
Upon hearing this, Epaminondas invaded the Peloponnese.
The Boeotian army forced their way pas the fortifications on the isthmus of Corinth.
Marched south towards Sparta.
Drove off the Spartan army in Arcadia that was threatening Mantinea.
Supervised the building of Megalopolis, a new city and the formation of the Arcadian League NOTE: Modeled on the Boeotian confederacy.
Continued moving south, crosing the Evrotas River.
Briefly returned to Arcadia.
Marched south again to liberate Messenia, the Spartan territory which had been theirs for 200 years.
Rebuilt the ancient city of Messene on Mount Ithome. NOTE: At the time, the fortifications wer among the strongest in Greece.
Called upon all Messenian exiles to return and rebuild their homeland.
These acts devastated Sparta; physically, economically, mentally, and the prestige of Sparta was forever lost.
Returned home, victorious.
Instead of a hero's welcome, a trial awaited Epaminondas. NOTE: He retained his command longer than constitutionally possible, which was the truth.
Epaminondas requested, in his defense, that upon his execution, the inscription be placed upon his tomb:
"Epaminondas
was punished by the Thebans with death, because he obliged them to
overthrow the Lacedaemonians at Leuctra, whom, before he was general,
none of the Boeotians durst look upon in the field, and because he not
only, by one battle, rescued Thebes from destruction, but also secured
liberty for all Greece, and brought the power of both people to such a
condition, that the Thebans attacked Sparta, and the Lacedaemonians
were content if they could save their lives; nor did he cease to
prosecute the war, till, after settling Messene, he shut up Sparta with
a close siege."
Charges were dropped and Epaminondas was reelected as Boeotarch for the next year.
Invaded the Peloponnese, won Sicyon over to the alliance with Thebes, not much else was achieved.
Again put on trial on his return, again acquitted.
Served as a common soldier in the army that was sent into Thessaly to rescue Pelopidas.
The Theban commanders of this expedition were outmaneuvered and forced to retreat.
Epaminondas was reinstated as commander of the Theban army.
Led
the the second attempt to rescue Pelopidas, outmaneuvered the
Thessalians and secured the release of Pelopidas without a fight.
After
a failed peace conference, Epaminondas returned for a third time
seeking to secure an allegiance of the states of Achaea. 366 B.C.
Despite the military prowlness of Thebes, her former allies kept defected to the old Spartan alliances.
Thessalian Pherae, a reliable ally, turned against its newly dominant ally.
The Arcadians, whose league Epaminondas established, turned against Thebes. NOTE: Messenia remained loyal.
Epaminondas challenges to Athens dominance at sea by building a fleet of 100 triremes. 364 B.C.
Cruised to the Propontis and detached several states from the Athenian confederacy.
Pelopidas was killed while campaigning against Alexander of Pherae.
Epaminondas defeats Alexander of Pherae. 363 B.C.
When
the Arcadians seized the Pan-Greek sanctuary of Zeus at Olympia in
Elis, one of the Arcadian city-states, Mantinea, joined the side of the
Spartans.
To stop this, Epaminondas led another expedition into the Peloponnese. 362 B.C.
Marched against Mantinea.
Upon hearing that a large Spartan force had marched to Mantinea that Sparta was undefended, he marched to Sparta.
Epaminondas arrived at Sparta to see it well defended.
He countermarched back to his base at Tegea, hoping that the Spartans left Mantinea undefeated.
Dispatched his cavalry to Mantinea.
An indecisive clash between the Athenian cavalry and Thebes cavalry at Mantinea ended any hope of a quick capture of Mantinea.
MANTINEA 362 B.C.
=================================================== Epaminondas (32,000) vs. Agesilaus II (26,000)
The
largest hoplite battle in Greek history. Epaminondas' army included
Thebes, Arcadia and the cities of the Boeotia League. But nearly every
Greek state participated in one form or another. Agesilaus II's army
included Sparta, Elis, and the cities of the Mantinea league.
Epaminondas used the same successful tactic at Leuctra. Organized the
Boeotian troops on the left wing of his army, supported by his
cavalry. Epaminondas led this formation. When battle ensued, the
stronger Boeotian wing drove back the Athenian and Mantinean cavalry
and began to attack the flanks of the enemy phalanx. The hoplite
battle then ensued with the Thebans warriors pushing and finally
breaking the Spartans. The entire Spartan-alliance phalanx was
routed. However, Epaminondas was fatally wounded. Upon hearing that
the other Theban leaders, Iolaidas and Daiphantus, were killed. he
instructed the Thebans to make peace.
Xenophon of the death of Epaminondas at Mantinea
===================================================
"When
these things had taken place, the opposite of what all men believed
would happen was brought to pass. For since well-nigh all the people of
Greece had come together and formed themselves in opposing lines, there
was no one who did not suppose that if a battle were fought, those who
proved victorious would be the rulers and those who were defeated would
be their subjects; but the deity so ordered it that both parties set up
a trophy as though victorious and neither tried to hinder those who set
them up, that both gave back the dead under a truce as though
victorious, and both received back their dead under a truce as though
defeated, and that while each party claimed to be victorious, neither
was found to be any better off, as regards either additional territory,
or city, or sway, than before the battle took place; but there was even
more confusion and disorder in Greece after the battle than before."
Cicero eulogized Epaminondas as
===================================================
"the first man, in my judgement, of Greece,"
Pausanias records an honorary peom from Epaminondas' tomb
===================================================
"By my counsels was parta Shone of her glory And holy Messene received at last her children By the arms of Thebes was Megalopolis encircled wit hwalls, And all Greece won independence and freedom."
- Wolcott3W7@aol.com 04/08/01
=================================================== As
an interesting side note, during this period, Philip II of Macedonia
was a hostage in Thebes, and he learned Theban tactics and organization
directly from Epaminondas, much like young Gustavus Adolphus learned
Dutch tactics and organization from Maurice of Nassau during his stay
there. In both cases, the student eventually became greater than the
master. Id probably put Epaminondas somewhere in the lower fifty. He
only fought two major battles, but they were against the Spartans, and
one can't ask for a higher quality opponent in any age.
- Statement by Epaminondas to an envoy of King Artaxerxes of Peria, who tried to bride him.
=================================================== There
is no need for money in this matter: for if the king desires what is
for the good of the Thebans, I am ready to do it for nothing; if
otherwise, he has not silver and gold enough to move me, for I would
not exchange the riches of the whole world for my love for my country.
You, who have tried me thus without knowing my character, and who have
thought me like yourself I do not blameand I forgive you; but quit the
city at once, lest you corrupt others, though unable to corrupt me.
- Epaminondas, on him not having any children.
=================================================== I
cannot want for posterity. For I leave behind me a daughter,---the
victory of Leuctra, that must of necessity not merely survive me, but
be immortal!
Under his leadership, the Theban army never plundered.
Never married; had several young male lovers.
A mere 27 years after his death, Thebes was wiped off the face of the Earth by Alexander the Great.
A 2006 poll asked who was the better general; Epaminondas or Philip II. Epaminondas received 11.2% of the votes.
Chou Kung (??? - ??? B.C.)
'Duke of Chou'
Originally named Chi Tan.
Father was known as Wen Wang (Cultured King).
Wen Wang revolted against the Shang Dynasty. Wu Wang the Martial King [q.v.] , Chou Kung's older brother, successfully overthrew the Shang.
Wu Wang established the Chou Dynasty. 1122 B.C.
Became the chief adviser in planning military and political strategy.
Received the fief of Lu from Wu Wang, however, he remained with his brother to help govern the Dynasty.
Many of Wu Wang's policies were adopted from the ideas of Chou Kung.
Wu Wang died. 1116 B.C.
Chou Kung set himself up as regent. NOTE: Wu Wang's infant son, King Ch'eng, was too young to govern.
His two brothers, Kuan Shu and Ts'ai Shu were suspicious of this act and sided with the Shang heir. NOTE: After the Wang rebellion, the son of the Shange king was given a small fief in eastern China.
Chou Kung put down the revolt. NOTE: No accounts were found pertaining to battles or campaigns.
The Shange heir and Kuan Shu were executed. Ts'ai Shu was exiled.
Chou Kung served as regent for another 7 years.
Resigned his position when King Ch'eng reached maturity.
Continued to advise the king.
Responsible for supervising the building of the new capital.
Taught the young king administration skills of the governement.
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