1. Early Life and Military Career
2. Parmenion's Role in Alexander's Conquests
3. Death and Legacy
4. - Defeating the Illyrians in a major battle in 356 BC

Parmenion: A Renowned General in Philip II and Alexander the Great's Armies

Early Life and Military Career

Parmenion, the son of Philotas, was born before Philip II of Macedon and likely served his father, Amyntas III, and later Philip himself. Ancient sources provide no details about his origins besides his father's name.

In 356 BC, Parmenion led Philip's forces to victory over the Illyrians. In 342 BC, he commanded the Macedonian army on the island of Euboea, where he installed Macedonian supporters in positions of power.

Parmenion's Role in Alexander's Conquests

In 336 BC, Parmenion was sent to Asia Minor with an advance force to secure a foothold for Philip II's invasion. After Philip's assassination, he remained loyal to the new king, Alexander. In 334 BC, during the invasion of Asia, he led the entire infantry of the Macedonian army.

In 333 BC at the Battle of Issus, Parmenion commanded the left wing of the Macedonian army. At the Battle of Gaugamela in 331 BC, he again led the left wing, which bore the brunt of the fighting.

Death and Legacy

In 330 BC, Parmenion was executed without trial by Alexander for alleged involvement in his son Philotas' conspiracy. Philip II had valued Parmenion as a general, stating that he envied Athens for finding ten generals annually while he had found only Parmenion over many years (Plutarch, "Sayings of Kings"). Philip trusted him to lead armies while he himself campaigned elsewhere.

Throughout his military career, Parmenion achieved numerous victories, including:

- Defeating the Illyrians in a major battle in 356 BC

- Besieging the Thessalian city of Halus in 346 BC
- Capturing the city of Oreus on the island of Euboea in 342 BC
- Preparing the invasion of Asia Minor in 336 BC

Despite his loyalty and service, Parmenion's execution by Alexander remains an enigma. His death illustrates the precarious nature of power and the sacrifices that can be made at the altar of suspicion and ambition.

Commander