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Travis Congleton 
Shogun 
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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 Topic: Commanders from the Antiquity AgePosted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:35 |
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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. SOURCES http://ancienthistory.about.com/cs/people/a/aristides.htm |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:35 |
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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.    SOURCES http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leonidas_I Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:34 |
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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.   SOURCES http://www.livius.org/mi-mn/miltiades/miltiades.html http://www.in2greece.com/english/historymyth/history/ancient /miltiades.htm Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:34 |
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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."  SOURCES - NOTE: Trying to find Callimachus on the Internet has been challenging. There is a well-known poet with the same name. http://www.answers.com/topic/battle-of-marathon http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Marathon http://www.tiscali.co.uk/reference/encyclopaedia/hutchinson/ m0004669.html Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:33 |
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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).   SOURCES http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/ancient/eb11-themstocles.html http://www.in2greece.com/english/historymyth/history/ancient /themistocles.htm Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:32 |
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Xerxes I (520 B.C. - 465 B.C.)
Also called Khshayarsha (Old Persian) and Ahasuerus (Bible) Persian King Son of Darius I, the Great, and daughter of Cyrus the Great, Atossa. Darius I (the Great) dies, Xerxes becomes king of Persia. 485 B.C. NOTE: By law, Darius I had to name a successor before an expedition to Egypt was to commence. He choose Xerxes, son of his second wife, Atossa, daughter of Cyrus (Apparently Atossa had a degree of influence over Darius). Quelled the Egyptian revolt and bringing Eygpt in Persian rule. Abolished the Kingdom of Babel. 484 B.C. NOTE: This event most likely caused revolts that took place in the same year and, again, in 479 B.C. Concluded an alliance with Carthage. Remembering the fleet that was wrecked by a sea storm in 492 B.C., ordered the channel near Chalcidice to be opened. Had two boat bridges built over the Hellespont near Abydus (enable troop crossing). NOTE: Interesting tale about this time of Xerxes cursing the sea and ordering the waters to receive 300 lashes. The expedition started in the spring, led by Xerxes, from Sardis. 480 B.C. NOTE: The problematic of logistics make the ancient estimates of Xerxes armies, at being 2 million and 1,200 ships, unrealistic. Most likely 200,000 men and less than 1,000 ships. By land, the army moved through Thracia, the fleet followed along the coast. Defeat the Spartans and their allies at the pass of Thermopyl, however this battle is often considered a morale booster to the Greeks. Thermopyl 480 B.C. ------------ Xerxes (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 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 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. 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. Persian fleet suffers setback with storm. Captured Athens. Burnt the temples of the Acropolis. Themistocles induces Xerxes through a message to attack the Greek fleet at Salamis. 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 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 With his line of communication lost, Xerxes was forced to retire to Sardis. Greek nationality soars. Using the Hellespont, Xerxes returns to Asia (leaving Mardonius in command of a portion of the army in Greece). NOTE: After taking Athens again, the Persian army was defeated in a 13-day battle in September, 479, at Plata (Mardonius was killed). 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. The Sparten general, Leutychides, commanding a Greek fleet, destroyed the remaining of the Persian fleet off Cape Mycale. The Persian Empire lost control of the Aegean Sea. Sent out Satapes to attempt the circumnavigation of Africa Xerxes was assassinated by Artabanus, captain of his bodyguard. 465 B.C. NOTE: It is believed that Artaxerxes, his son, ordered this action. FAMOUS BATTLES: Thermopyl, Salamis SOURCES http://www.iranchamber.com/history/xerxes/xerxes.php http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xerxes_I http://www.encyclopedia.com/html/X/Xerxes1.asp   Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:27 |
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Darius I, the Great (522-486 B.C.)
king of Persia also known as Darrioush, Darayarahush, Darius I Hystapspes 2nd Ruler of the 27th Dynasty 36-year reign At the time before Darius took power, a man named Gaumata pretended to be Cambyses' brother. Cambyses, currently king, set out to Persia to hunt Gaumata down. In Syria, he died by either an accident or suicide. 522 B.C. Darius, from a high-ranking Persian family, killed Gaumata to gain the throne. With a small army, spent the next year squashing rebellions in Susiana, Babylon, Media, Sagartia, and Margiana. Seized power after killing king Gaumata. Re-found the Achaemenid empire, which had been loosely organized. Adopted the same form of government Cyrus the Great had established. Made military reforms (conscription, pay for soldiers, military training) Restored the coin system and introduced the gold coinage of the Daric. Established the Persian legal code. Noted as a great statesman and organizer Fought several foreign wars. Defeated nations of the Pontic and Armenian mountains. Extended dominion to the Caucasus. Fought against the Saka and other Iranian steppe tribes. Fought against the Turanians just beyond the Oxus River. Added the northern Indian subcontinent to his empire. Moved against the Hellespont. 516 B.C. Restored the Jewish state. 515 B.C. Led an incursion against the Scythians. 512 B.C. With a great army, he moved into Europe and crossed the Bosporus. Campaign north of the Danube yielded limited success due to faulty intelligence (capturing Thrace and Macedonia). A bridgehead through Hellespont was established. Disputed with the Greeks after giving refuge to the tyrant Hippias. The Ionian Revolt, which was supported by the Greek city-states, Athens and Eretria, caused the loss of both the Persian Thrace and Macedonia. 500 B.C. Led campaign to crush the Greeks. First expedition was turned after a serious a storms. 492 B.C. His Army was defeated at Marathon during the Second Expedition. 490 B.C. Began preparation for another campaign into Greece which was interrupted by a revolt in Egypt. 486 B.C. NOTE: With back-to-back failures, this invited the Egyptians to revolt (despite their favorable view of Darius in the past). Darius soon died the next year. He built the palace cities of Susa and Persepolis. Succeeded by Xerxes I, his son. FAMOUS BATTLE: Marathon   Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
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Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:21 |
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Cyrus II, the Great (580 - 529 B.C.)
First Achaemenid Emperor King of Persia Other titles: 'Law-giver', 'the annointed of the Lord' Also spelled: Old Persian Kuru; Hebrew Kores Cyrus II is also a member of Congo's Top 100 Commanders of All Time So the Legend says: Son of an Iranian noble, the elder Cambyses I, and a Median princess, daughter of the Median king, Astyages. Father was ruler of the Persian district of Anshan During his father reign, the Persians were vassals to the Median king. Took over as ruler of Anshan. circa 558 B.C. Formed new coalition with other tribes including the Maraphii, Panthialaei, Derusiaei, Germanii, Dahae and a few others. Led rebellion against Medes. circa 554 B.C. (some say 559 B.C.; others 550 B.C.) Astyages sends his commander Harpagus to crush the rebellion, but Harpagus defects to the Persians. The Persians capture the king of Medes, Astyages. Cyrus spares Astyages' life. Entered Ecbatana, taking over the Median kingdom. Uniting two Iranian tribes (Medes and Persians) to found Persia. Incorporated the Medes Empire to a Persian one (including areas of Armenia, Cappadocia, Parthia, Drangiana, Aria) Formed a government incorporating Median and Persian nobles. Established a government (appointed a governor [satrap] to represent him in each province. Administration, legistlation and cultural activities were the responsibility of the Satraps). Objective included controlling the Mediterranean coast, secure Asia Minor and civilize the east. Coresus of Lydia, Nabonidus of Babylonia, and Amasis II of Egypt joined by the city-state of Sparta, form an alliance to curb the power of Persia. Coresus, challenging Cyrus, crossed the Halys river, violating the border between Lydia and Medes/Persians Cyrus quickly moves westward. A brief engagement at Pteria forced Croesus to retire to his capital, Sardis. NOTE: Croesus used the strategy of "Scorch Earth" to prevent Cyrus from following as winter approached. Cyrus persists and forces another battle at Hermus. Defeating the Lydians. NOTE: So the Legend says: Cyrus defeated the Lydians at Hermus by placing camels in front of his own troops, the smell of the camels terrified the horses of the Lydian cavalry; their ranks were scattered in confusion. Croesus escapes to Sardis. After two weeks, Cyrus was able to infiltrate and successfully storm Sardis. 546 B.C. Cyrus spares Croesus' life (whom lived on to become a great noble in the royal court). Forced Lydia to become a Satrapy under the Persian control (Later demanded Lycia, Caria, and other Greek cities that were control by Lydia to became satrapies of Persia). Uprising in his own domain of Media compelled him to leave Asia Minor. (Harpagus, placed in charge, attacked the Greek cities in Asia Minor. Within a year they were under Persian rule.) NOTE: Sparta made no effort to protect the Asiatic Greeks. Conquered Drangiana, Arachosia, Margiana and Bactria (modern northern Afghanistan). Crossed the river, Oxus (probably what is now the Amu river in Afghanistan). Built fortified towns to effectively defend the Persian border from nomadic tribes of Central Asia. Eastern expansion is not exactly known, but it could have reached the Peshawar region. Spent six years marching over the unexplored regions of Central Asia. Fought in Chinese Turkestan. Traveled back west to attack Babylon and Egypt. Cyrus took advantage of the discontent of the population of Babylonia of its rule, Nabonidus of the Chaldaen empire. Nabonidus's son, Belshazzar, was incompentent as a military advisor and indirectly allowed Cyrus into the city of Babylon. 538 B.C. NOTE: During the night, Cyrus diverted the Euphrates river, which flowed through Babylon. This allowed troop movement into the city while a religious festival was taking place that occupied the Babylonian troops. Little resistance occurred. Welcomed 40,000 Jews to return to the promised Land, Palestine. 539 B.C. Placed the Jews in power in Palestine (perhaps an attempt to create a buffer state between Egypt and Persia). NOTE: Never did attack Egypt. Founded a new capital city at Pasargade (named after his tribe) in Fars (previously had used Susa, Ecbatana, and Babylon as capitals as well). Died while leading an expedition into modern Khazakhstan against the eastern tribe, the Massagetae. Cambyses, his son, succeeded him. NOTE: Cyrus' body was placed in a small building containing many valuables. Most were stolen to prevent the coronation of a foreigner; Alexander the Great. Cyrus' body was desecrated. Alexander ordered restorations in 324 B.C. NOTE: Darius I claimed to have been from the same family as Cyrus I. ACCOMPLISHMENTS Declared the first Charter of Human Rights Devised the first postal system Great conqueror; remembered for his tolerance and magnanimous attitude towards those he defeated. Showed great forbearance and respect towards all religions and cultural traditions (Did not force conquered people to adapt to his culture). - Professor Richard Frye of Harvard ----------------------------------------------------- "In the victories of the Persians... what was different was the new policy of reconciliation and together with this was the prime aim of Cyrus to establish a pax Achaemenica... If one were to assess the achievements of the Achaemenid Persians, surely the concept of One World, ...the fusion of peoples and cultures in one 'Oecumen' was one of their important legacies." - Herodutus, in Histories ----------------------------------------------------- "it is because of this fixing of tribute [by Darius] and other similar ordinances that the Persians called Darius the merchant, Cambyses the master and Cyrus the father; for Darius made petty profit out of everything, Cambyses was harsh and arrogant, Cyrus was merciful and always worked for their well-being." (Histories, III, 89) - Xenophon, in Cyropaedia ----------------------------------------------------- "He is able to extend the fear of himself over so great a part of the world that he astonished all, and no one attempted anything against him. He was able to inspire all with so great a desire of pleasing him that they wished to be governed by his opinions[.]" - The famous clay cylinder of Cyrus the Great, written in Babylonian cuneiform ======================================== "I am Cyrus, king of the world, great king, mighty king, king of Babylon, king of the land of Sumer and Akkad, king of the four quarters, son of Cambyses, ..king of Anshan, grandson of Cyrus, ...descendant of Teispes, ..progeny of an unending royal line, whose rule Bel and Nabu cherish, whose kingship they desire for their hearts' pleasures. When I, well-disposed, entered Babylon, I established the seat of government in the royal palace amidst jubilation and rejoicing. Marduk, the great God, caused the big-hearted inhabitants of Babylon to come to me. I sought daily to worship him. My numerous troops moved about undisturbed in the midst of Babylon. I did not allow any to terrorize the land of Sumer and Akkad. I kept in view the needs of Babylon and all its sanctuaries to promote their well being. The citizens of Babylon ...their dilapidated dwellings I restored. I put an end to their misfortunes.. ..the cities of Ashur and Susa, Agade, Eshnuna, the cities of Zamban, Meurnu, Der, as far as the region of the land of Gutium, the holy cities beyond the Tigris whose sanctuaries had been in ruins over a long period, the gods whose abode is in the midst of them, I returned to the places and housed them in lasting abodes. I gathered together all their inhabitants and restored to them their dwellings..."   Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:20 |
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Cyaxares (circa 625-585 B.C.)
Media king (modern Iran) also spelled Hvakhshathra, Uvakhsatara, Umakishtar 40-year reign Succeeded his father, Phraortes, as king of Media. NOTE: Phraortes was killed in a battle against the Assyrians. Restructured and modernized the Median army. NOTE: He divided them by spearmen, archers, and cavalry. Whereas before, they were mixed similar to a mob. Joined king Nabopolassar of Babylon in alliance. Besieged Nineveh, the Assyrian capital. During this operation, a large Scythian army, under king Madyas, approached and engaged the Medes. Cyaxares was defeated. NOTE: The Babylonian army was on the way to assist in the besieging of this city, but arrived late and missed both battles. Cyaxares invited the Scythians to a banquet and later murdered them. Captured Ashur (destroyed it). 614 B.C. with the Babylonian army, again besieged, but successfully captured, Nineveh (sacking the city) within 3 months. 612 B.C. NOTE: The king of Assyria, Sin-sar-iskun died. Conquered Northern Mesopotamia and Armenia. circa 609 B.C. Warred with Lydia with both sides having several victories. 590-585 B.C. NOTE: An eclipse took place during the last battle. Both armies were shaken by this event. A favorable peaceful resolution was made between both empires. Succeeded by his son, Astyages, who reigned for 35-years.   Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:19 |
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Nebuchadnezzar II (605-562 B.C.)
king of Babylon Prevent Egypt and Syria from encroachment. Conquered the Phoenicians. Conquered the state of Judah. 586 B.C. Forced 10,000 of the Jewish community to relocate. Babylon was rebuilt under his reign (included canals, aqueducts and reservoirs). Nebuchadnezzar still had to contest against several city-states that were pro-Assyrian.   Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:19 |
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Jimmu Tenno (711-585 B.C.)
Mythical founder of Japan First Emperor of Japan 660 B.C. also spelled Jinmu Invaded Japan's main island Honshu. Founded the Yamato family. Also regarded as a direct descendant of the Shinto deity Amaterasu. Difficult to prove his actual existence.  Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:17 |
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Nabopolasser (626 B.C.- ? ? ? )
king of Babylon Founder of the Chaldean Empire Begins successful revolt against the Assyrians. 626 B.C. Turns reign over to Nebuchadnezzar II, his son, due to illness. 605 B.C.  Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:16 |
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David, Second King of Israel (1010-973
B.C.)
=============================== Destroyed the Philistines. Conquered Palestine; dominated Syria. Internal insurrections rose up against him.   Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:15 |
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Wu Wang Chi Fa of the Chou 'the Martial King' ( ??? -???
)
=============================== Defeats the Shang Dynasty at the battle of Mu Yu (circa 1057 or 1027 B.C.) using 300 chariots.  Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:15 |
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Gideon Jerub-baal, Jewish Warrior (circa 1100
B.C.)
=============================== United most of the Israelite tribes against the Midianites.  Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:14 |
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TIGLATHPILESER I (1115-1077)
=========================== King of Assyria son of Assur ris-isi Ascended the throne 1120 B.C. His first campaign was against the Moschi on the Upper Euphrates. Overran Commagene and eastern Cappadocia. Drove the Hittites from the Assyrian province of Subarti north-east Of Malatia. Penetrated into the Kurdish mountains south of Lake Van and then turned westward. Forced Malatia to submit. In his fifth year, attacked Comana in Cappadocia. Placed a record of his victories engraved on copper plates in a fortress he built to secure his Cilician conquests. Attacked the Aramaeans of north Syria. Three times he found his way to the source of the Tigris river. Gained control of the Hittite town, Pethor at the junction of the Euphrates and Sajor (this was an important trade route to the Mediterranean Sea). Received presents at Arvad. In this inscription he describes his conquests. (From: R. F. Harper, Assyrian and Babylonian Literature (New York; D. Appleton, 1904) pp. 12-14) ====================================== "Tiglath-pileser, the powerful king, king of hosts, who has no rival, king of the four quarters (of the world), king of all rulers, lord of lords, king of kings; the lofty prince . . . who rules over the nations, the legitimate shepherd whose name is exalted above all rulers; the lofty judge, whose weapons Ashur has sharpened, and whose name, as ruler over the four quarters (of the world), he has proclaimed forever; the conqueror of distant lands, which form the boundaries on north and south; the brilliant day, whose splendor overthrows the world's regions; the terrible, destroying flame, which like the rush of the storm sweeps over the enemy's country; who . . . has no adversary, and overthrows the foes of Ashur. Ashur and the great gods who have enlarged my kingdom, who have given me strength and power as my portion, commanded me to extend the territory of their (the gods') country, putting into my hand their powerful weapons, the cyclone of battle. I subjugated lands and mountains, cities and their rulers, enemies of Ashur, and conquered their territories. With sixty kings I fought, spreading terror (among them), and achieved a glorious victory over them. A rival in combat, or an adversary in battle, I did not have. To Assyria I added more land, to its people I added more people, enlarging the boundaries of my land and conquering all (neighboring?) territories. In the beginning of my government, five kings . . . with an army of twenty thousand men . . .--and whose power no king had ever broken and overcome in battle--trusting to their strength rushed down and conquered the land of Qummuh (Commagene). With the help of Ashur, my lord, I gathered my war chariots and assembled my warriors; I made no delay, but traversed Kashiari, an almost impassable region. I waged battle in Qummuh with these five kings and their twenty thousand soldiers and accomplished their defeat. Like the Thunderer (the storm god Adad) I crushed the corpses of their warriors in the battle that caused their overthrow. I made their blood to flow over all the ravines and high places of mountains. I cut off their heads and piled them up at the walls of their cities like heaps of grain. I carried off their booty, their goods, and their property beyond reckoning. Six thousand, the rest of their troops, who had fled before my weapons and had thrown themselves at my feet, I took away as prisoners and added to the people of my country. At that time I marched also against the people of Qummuh, who had become un-submissive, withholding the tax and tribute due to Ashur, my lord. I conquered Qummuh to its whole extent, and carried off their booty, their goods, and their property; I burned their cities with fire, destroyed, and devastated." CONGO NOTES Renowned for his military ability An able administrator Great builder and restored much of the temple of Assur and Hadad at Assur. NOTE: I was surprised at the lack of details on the Internet pertaining to this individual. I expected more information.   Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:13 |
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Rameses II Pharaoh of Egypt (1299-1232
B.C.)
=============================== One of the most prolific builders in Egypt. Restored the old boundaries (somewhat successfully) Battle of Kadesh, 1294 B.C. NOTE: Rameses II is quite popular. Despite his success, I do not think he should be listed with prominent commanders. I do feel I should elaborate on the details of Kadesh.   Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:08 |
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Haremhab, 1st Soldier King of the XVIII Dynasty (circa 1319-1292
B.C.)
=============================== Seized power and establisehd the XIX Dynasty Restored internal order and solidified the Egyptian frontiers.  Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
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Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:08 |
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Suppiluliumas Hittite King (1390-1354
B.C.)
=============================== Hittite King Succeeded his father, Tudhaliyas III. Building up the hittite capital, Hattusas. Consolidated lands. Focused on the Mitanni in the east. Initial raid through the Taurus mountain passes failed. He decided to cross the Euphrates to the north and approach Wassukani, the Mittani capital. This worked and he sacked the city and King Tushratta, the Mitanni king, was assassinated. Crushed the Egyptian ally, Mitanni. Gained allegianced of Syrian princes when he crossed the Euphrates to the south. Defeated the king of Kadesh. Traveled almost as far south as Damascus. Left the Syrian affairs to his son, Telipinus, while he returned to Hattusas to attaend religious ceremonies. In the meantime, the Assyrians rose up against the Mitanni and gained their independence. The Assyrians and the new ruler of Wassukani, Artatama, formed an alliance against the Hittites. NOTE: Artatama abandoned his support he could have received from Egypt. Suppiluliumas returned to Syria. Successfully sieged Carchemish in eight days. Established Hittite rule in northern Syria. Placed Telipinus as King of Aleppo and another, Piyassilis, as king of Carchemish. Peace treaty with Tushratta's son Mattiwaza who became a vassal state. Sending emissaries and his son, Zannanza, to determine if the Egyptian Queen Ankhesenamun was serious about marriage. Zannanza was killed en route. Suppilulimas warred with Egypt. Suppilulimas soon died from a plague brought to Anatolia by Egyptian prisoners of war. Arnuwandas II took control but died soon after too. Mursilis II, young and inexperienced, took control of the Hittite throne.  Edited by Travis Congleton |
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Travis Congleton
Shogun
Joined: 18-Aug-2005 Online Status: Offline Posts: 200 |
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Posted: 17-Feb-2006 at 15:07 |
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Thutmose III (1516 B.C. - 1425
B.C.)
===================================== King of Egypt 5th ruler of the 18th Dynasty 54-year reign Other spellings include Tuthmosis, Tuthmose, Thutmose, and Djehutymes. Thutmose III is also a member of Congo's Top 100 Commanders of All Time Son of Thutmose II and son-in-law to queen Hatshepsut (he married her daughter - his own half-sister). Thutmose II died, but Thutmose III was too young to rule the throne. Hatshepsut took over, but held the throne, suppressing Thutmose III until he was 30-years old. During the reign of Hatshepsut, she was overwhelmed by life's tragedies and apparently fled. Thutmose III, who was the rightful heir, became the new pharoah of Egypt. Testing the waters of freedom, the Egyptian neighbor, Kadesh, and the Kingdom of Mitanni (Syria) declared their independence (a few other city-states were in this alliance, one other noteable was Megiddo). Thutmose III went to war under the banner of the god, Amun. Marched 10 days across the Sinai desert to the city of Gaza (which remained loyal). Megiddo 1457 B.C. (date varies between sources; Egyptologists favor 1457 B.C.) =============================== Thutmose III (around 10,000) vs. Prince of Kadesh (not found) With a day of rest at Gaza, Thutmose marched 11 days towards the passes near Megiddo. There were three possible routes to reach Megiddo and the Canaanite army, the northern and southern pass (via Zefti and Taanach respectively) were large paths that would be easy for his army to march. Against his military advisors opinions, Thutmose III chose the route in the middle, via Aruna, the one considered the "least most travelled". It was a narrow ravine. His soldiers would have to march in single file which he personally lead. Thutmose lead an assault on the city of Aruna, which was lightly guarded. His army emerged untouched and discovered the prince of Kadesh had divided his army to cover the other routes. A day later, he defeated both wings. Unfortunately, his soldiers fell upon the treasures left behind and allowed the enemy, including the kings of Kadesh and Megiddo, to escape to Megiddo. A 7-month siege was required to have the city capitulate (leaders surrendered after food supply dwindled). His treatment of them was lenient. 340 prisoners Treasured retained 900 chariots 200 suites of armor 502 bows 2,000 horses 25,000 other animals the royalarmor, chariot and tent-poles of the king of Megiddo. During the rest of this campaign, Thutmose III captured three more cities (campaigns in palestine, Syria, Nubia). Next 18 years, his armies would invade Syria every summer (capturing 350 cities). 2nd campaign, conquered Assur and Retennu 5th campaign, conquered Arvad captured 6th campaign, conquered Kadesh. Punished Arvad (apparently they revolted). Received tribute from Retunnu. 7th campaign, Ulluza crushed. Received tribute from Retennu and Genebteyew. Taxed Wawat. 8th campaign, conquered Naharin and Carchamesh. First pharoah to cross Euphrates river (to fight the Hanilgalbat). 9th campaign, conquered "Zahri towns". Received tribute from Retennu and Cyprus. Taxed Kush and Wawat. 10th campaign, Punished Naharin (which revolted). Taxed Kush and Wawat. 13th campaign, Nuges overthrown. Received tribute from Syria, Cyprus, Arrapakhitis. Received products from Punt. Taxed Kush and Wawat. 14th campaign, conquered Shasu. Received tribute from Syria. 15th campaign, Received tribute from Cyprus. Taxed Kush and Wawat 16th campaign, Received tribute from Retennu and the Hittites. Taxed Kush and Wawat. 17th campaign, conquered Kadesh (which revolted), Erakatu. Cities of Tunip and Kadesh were destroyed. Tribute from many areas. Taxed Kush and Wawat. In his 50th year in power, restored Senusret III's old canal easing his logistics (circa 1466 B.C.). Constructed new monuments at Abydos, Aswan, Heliopolis and Memphis. Valued logistics, lines of supply, rapid movement and surprise attacks. NOTE [1] Hatshepsut became disheartened after she was unable to end her reign in the manner that she would have liked. [2] Later in his life, he attempted to expunge images of the late Hatshepsut, his stepmother. [3] Called the Annals, the inscriptions at Karnak were about Megiddo and done during the 42nd year as pharaoh. [4] His mummy was found at Dayru lBahri (1881 A.D.). [5] A commander that is in BOLD under the title of a battle indicates that he was the victor of the battle. - James Henry Breasted, who coined the term. "He is the Napoleon of ancient Egypt." CONGO NOTES Never lost a battle. Excellent Administrator skills Excellent Statesmanship (Political Skills) - Inscribed on Thanuny's tomb, his royal scribe as well as an army commander. =============================================== "I recorded the victories he won in every land, putting them into writing according to the facts." Amenophis II succeeded him.     Edited by Travis Congleton |
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