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Agesilaus IIKing of Sparta from 401 BC, military leader and diplomat
Date of Birth: .
Country:  Greece |
Content:
- Early Life and Rise to Power
- Military Campaigns
- Corinthian War (395-387 BCE)
- Theban War (378-362 BCE)
- Egyptian Expedition (361-360 BCE)
- Characteristics and Legacy
Early Life and Rise to Power
Agesilaus II (born c. 442 BCE) was the son of Archidamus II and Eupolia. Upon the death of his brother Agis II in 399 BCE, Agesilaus ascended to the Spartan throne with the support of his ally, the naval commander Lysander.
Military Campaigns
Persian War (396-394 BCE)Leading 2,000 Spartans and 6,000 allied warriors, Agesilaus embarked on a campaign in Asia Minor to quell the Persian threat to Greek settlements. He employed clever maneuvers and diplomacy, capturing cities and forming alliances. At the Battle of Sardis, Sparta defeated the Persian forces led by Tissaphernes. However, Agesilaus was recalled to Greece due to the outbreak of the Corinthian War.
Corinthian War (395-387 BCE)
Amidst Persian subsidies, a coalition of Athens, Argos, Thebes, Corinth, and Thessaly challenged Spartan dominance. Agesilaus crossed the Hellespont and marched through Thrace, defeating local tribes. He then played a key role in Sparta's victory at a major battle in Corinth, boosting his troops' morale.
Theban War (378-362 BCE)
Under the leadership of Epaminondas, the Boeotian League became a formidable adversary for Sparta. Agesilaus fought against them repeatedly, capturing the port of Piraeus in 388 BCE and defeating the Acarnanians. However, the war dragged on, and Agesilaus's efforts were ultimately eclipsed by the rise of Thebes.
Egyptian Expedition (361-360 BCE)
Seeking financial aid for Sparta, Agesilaus traveled to Egypt, where he assisted the Egyptians in their war against Persia and played a role in their dynastic struggles.
Characteristics and Legacy
Agesilaus was renowned for his average height, handsome features, and robust physique despite a limp. He endured hardships with ease, tolerating both extreme heat and cold. His intellect and foresight were highly regarded.
His troops adored Agesilaus for his impeccable ethical conduct, unwavering spirits, and impartial justice. His life and achievements have been chronicled by Xenophon, Plutarch, and Cornelius Nepos, praising his military prowess and diplomatic skills that contributed to Sparta's temporary hold on Greek hegemony.
