Ancient Greek History

Top 5 Military and Political Leaders of Ancient Greece

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Ancient Greek history spans thousands of years, and there are some memorable moments that have taken place through the ages. At the center of some of the most memorable events are its leaders, particularly the military leaders.

The following historical figures are known not only for their vast military experience, but also for the fact that they were great leaders. Here’s more information about the top military leaders of Ancient Greece:

Alexander the Great

Alexander the Great, also known as Alexander III of Macedon, is considered to be one of the greatest military leaders in all of Ancient Greece, and possibly one of the greatest in the world. He greatly expanded Greece’s borders through conquest while pushing East. This was always his father’s vision, but King Philip’s untimely death left this goal up to his son, Alexander. Alexander the Great is also a bit of a controversial figure since he achieved most of his success by conquering first Greece, and then the lands that he campaigned through.


The Athenian city state was known for its impressive and formidable navy. However, it wasn’t always like this. There was a time when Athens’ navy barely existed. Pericles is responsible for building the Athenian Navy into the formidable powerhouse that it became. After the First Persian Invasion, Pericles was convinced that they would come back. He was right, ten years or so later the Persians attempted another invasion. Because Pericles convinced the Athenians to build the navy, Ancient Greece was ready for them.

King Leonidas

King Leonidas is known for being the leader of Ancient Sparta. During the Second Persian Invasion, the Spartans were instrumental in helping the Athenian Navy formulate a battle plan. King Leonidas and his Spartan army defended at the pass at Thermopylae until the Persian Army eventually overtook them. The Spartans’ bravery, under the leadership of King Leonidas, was legendary.


Solon was a both a legendary lawmaker, statesmen, and a military leader. He is credited with helping to push Athens out of its decline towards the end of the Archaic Period. He is most known for the reforms that he facilitated in Athens. His predecessor, Draco, passed a variety of stringent laws, and then Solon overturned many of them. These laws and rules helped resurrect the city-state. He was also known for his poetry.


Cleisthenes is a unique figure in Greek history, particularly in Athens city-state. There was a time when Athens was ruled by the nobility, which was the minority. Those of noble birth ruled the majority of the population. The peasantry decided they didn’t want that to be the case any longer and then revolted. Cleisthenes was noble born, but he sympathized with the peasant’s cause. Because he listened to what was bothering him, he developed democracy.

Ancient Greece is known for its robust and extensive history. The Ancient Greeks are known for having developed principals like democracy. The Greeks were also known for the bravery and strong leadership. These leaders are amongst the best.

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