Download 425 – 421 BCE of the Peloponnesian War 425 Athens (an Athenian

425 – 421 BCE of the Peloponnesian War
425
Athens (an Athenian fleet under General Demosthenes) took Pylos. Gained Spartan
prisoners, who became a useful bargaining chip .
The aristocracy led by Nicias desired peace, but the majority of Athenians, led by Cleon,
insisted on fighting on.
424
Demosthenes fortified Pylos.
Brasidas (the Spartan Commander) marched north with 1700 hoplites (including 700 helots)
because Macedonia and other Thracian towns requested aid.
Brasidas wins over Amphipolis and Acanthus (Athenians allies) through oratory and
diplomacy.
Thucydides exiled as a result of the loss of Amphipolis and Acanthus.
Nicias captures Cythera and Methana – important strategic points
Athens sends garrisons to various cities to stop them switching alliances to the
Peloponnesians.
“This is no time for us to dose or dither about like our friend Nicias” – Aristophanes, The
Birds, 638-9
423
Torone switched allegiances from Athens to Sparta, so Athens starts truce talks with Sparta
Scione revolts in the middle of the peace talks and Brasidas accepts them. When the truce is
concluded, Athens wants Scione back. Brasidas says no, and the treaty dies.
Mende switches to Sparta as well. Mende is retaken under Nicias.
Scione placed under siege.
Cleon takes 1500 troops and retakes Torone and other Thracian cities.
422
Battle of Amphipolis - Cleon and Brasidas both die.
421
Lesbos revolted but fell to an Athenian siege.
Nicias negotiates peace treaty.
The decree for total revenge on Mitylene, its capital, was revoked only at the last moment
on the basis of inexpediency.
The Peace of Nicias is signed. Providing for fifty years’ peace, return of prisoners and
captured places by both sides.