"Rhodes Submits to Persia (396 BCE) - A Pivotal Moment in Aegean Politics"
Content:
In 396 BCE, during the tumultuous period of the Corinthian War (395-387 BCE), the island of Rhodes—a key maritime power in the Aegean—shifted its allegiance from Sparta to Persia. This event was part of a broader realignment of Greek city-states as they navigated the complex power struggles between Sparta, Athens, Thebes, and the Persian Empire.
Background:
- After Sparta's victory in the Peloponnesian War (431-404 BCE), it sought to dominate the Greek world, but its harsh policies alienated former allies.
- Persia, under King Artaxerxes II, saw an opportunity to weaken Sparta by supporting its Greek rivals, including Athens and Thebes.
- The Spartan admiral Lysander had previously clashed with Rhodes, making the island wary of Spartan dominance.
The Shift to Persia (396 BCE):
- Rhodes, strategically located and economically vital, had been under Spartan influence but grew discontented with Spartan hegemony.
- Encouraged by Persian diplomacy and bribes (a common Persian tactic), Rhodes revolted against Sparta and allied itself with Persia.
- This defection was part of a larger Persian strategy to fund and incite rebellions against Sparta, ultimately leading to the Corinthian War.
Consequences:
- Rhodes' submission to Persia demonstrated the growing Persian influence in Greek affairs, as Artaxerxes II used gold and diplomacy to manipulate the balance of power.
- The loss of Rhodes weakened Sparta's naval dominance in the eastern Aegean.
- The event foreshadowed the eventual King's Peace (387 BCE), where Persia arbitrated Greek conflicts, reinforcing its role as the dominant power in the region.
Limitations of Knowledge:
While ancient sources like Xenophon mention Rhodes' defection, details on the exact negotiations or internal Rhodian politics are scarce. The broader context, however, highlights Persia's skillful exploitation of Greek rivalries.
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