Battle of Amphipolis: What Happened
In 422 BC, Athenian and Spartan forces clashed outside Amphipolis, an important city in northern Greece near the mouth of the Strymon River. Amphipolis was an Athenian colony and a vital source of timber for shipbuilding and silver. In 424 BC, the brilliant Spartan general Brasidas had captured it in a surprise campaign, a loss that led to the exile of the Athenian commander Thucydides, who later wrote the history of the war. In 422 BC, the Athenian leader Cleon led an army north to retake the city. As the Athenians began to withdraw after a reconnaissance, Brasidas launched a sudden attack from the city gates and routed them. Both commanders were killed in the fighting. Cleon died while fleeing, and Brasidas was mortally wounded but lived long enough to hear of his victory. The people of Amphipolis honored Brasidas as their founder with a hero's shrine. The deaths of the two most aggressive leaders on each side removed major obstacles to peace. The following year, Athens and Sparta agreed the Peace of Nicias.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Battle of Amphipolis?
The Battle of Amphipolis was fought in 422 BC between Athens and Sparta outside the city of Amphipolis in northern Greece. The Spartans, led by Brasidas, defeated the Athenians under Cleon.
Why was Amphipolis important?
Amphipolis was an Athenian colony near the mouth of the Strymon River. It was a vital source of timber for shipbuilding and of silver, and it controlled key routes.
Who died at the Battle of Amphipolis?
Both commanders died. Cleon was killed while fleeing, and Brasidas was mortally wounded but lived long enough to learn of his victory.
How was Thucydides connected to Amphipolis?
The historian Thucydides was the Athenian general who failed to save Amphipolis from Brasidas in 424 BC. He was exiled for twenty years and used the time to write his history.
What happened after the Battle of Amphipolis?
The deaths of Cleon and Brasidas, the leading supporters of war on each side, made peace possible. Athens and Sparta agreed the Peace of Nicias the following year.
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