Aratus of Sicyon

Aratus of Sicyon (271 BC – 213 BC) was a prominent Greek statesman and military leader who played a significant role in the politics of the Hellenistic period. He is best known for his efforts to liberate Greek cities from Macedonian control and for his leadership of the Achaean League.

Early Life

Aratus was born in 271 BC in the city of Sicyon, located in the northern Peloponnese. His father, Clinias, was a prominent citizen of Sicyon, but was assassinated when Aratus was a child. Aratus was subsequently raised in Argos, where he received a comprehensive education in the arts and military tactics.

Rise to Power

In 251 BC, at the age of 20, Aratus led a successful coup to liberate Sicyon from the tyrant Nicocles. This bold action marked the beginning of his political career. After securing Sicyon, Aratus worked to stabilize the city and integrate it into the Achaean League, a confederation of Greek city-states in the northern and central Peloponnese.

Leadership of the Achaean League

Aratus became the strategos (general) of the Achaean League in 245 BC. Under his leadership, the League expanded its influence and territory. Aratus was a skilled diplomat and military strategist, known for his ability to form alliances and his preference for liberating cities through negotiation rather than force.

Key Achievements

One of Aratus's most notable achievements was the liberation of Corinth from Macedonian control in 243 BC. By capturing the Acrocorinth, the fortified citadel of Corinth, he significantly weakened Macedonian influence in the region. This victory was a turning point for the Achaean League, allowing it to become a major power in Greece.

Aratus also played a crucial role in the liberation of Athens and other cities, further expanding the League's influence. His efforts were instrumental in maintaining the autonomy of Greek city-states during a period of increasing Macedonian and Roman intervention.

Later Years and Death

In his later years, Aratus faced challenges from both internal and external forces. The rise of Cleomenes III of Sparta posed a significant threat to the Achaean League. Despite initial setbacks, Aratus managed to secure an alliance with Antigonus III Doson of Macedonia, which helped to defeat Cleomenes at the Battle of Sellasia in 222 BC.

Aratus continued to serve as strategos of the Achaean League until his death in 213 BC. He died in Aegium, possibly poisoned by agents of Philip V of Macedon, who saw him as a threat to Macedonian interests.

Legacy

Aratus of Sicyon is remembered as a key figure in the history of the Achaean League and the Hellenistic period. His efforts to maintain Greek independence and his diplomatic skills left a lasting impact on the political landscape of ancient Greece. His life and achievements were chronicled by the historian Polybius, who admired his statesmanship and leadership.

Also see

• Achaean League
• Cleomenes III
• Antigonus III Doson
• Polybius
• Hellenistic period