Battle of Arginusae: What Happened
In 406 BC, near the Arginusae Islands, between the island of Lesbos and the coast of Asia Minor, Athens won its last great naval victory of the Peloponnesian War. The Spartan admiral Callicratidas had trapped an Athenian fleet at Mytilene on Lesbos. In response, Athens made an extraordinary effort, melting down temple treasures to pay for new ships and even freeing slaves who volunteered to row. A relief fleet of around 150 ships defeated the Spartan fleet, sinking or capturing about 70 ships, and Callicratidas was killed. The victory, however, ended in tragedy. A storm struck after the battle, and the Athenian commanders failed to rescue the crews of their own wrecked ships, leaving many men to drown. The Athenian assembly, furious, put the generals on trial as a group, which was against Athenian law. The philosopher Socrates, serving on the presiding council that day, opposed the illegal procedure. Six of the eight generals who had returned to Athens were executed, including a son of Pericles. Athens lost some of its most experienced commanders just before its final defeat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Battle of Arginusae?
The Battle of Arginusae, in 406 BC, was Athens' last great naval victory of the Peloponnesian War, won near the Arginusae Islands between Lesbos and the coast of Asia Minor.
How did Athens build its fleet for Arginusae?
Athens made an extraordinary effort, melting down temple treasures to pay for new ships and freeing slaves who volunteered to row in the fleet.
Why were the Athenian generals executed after Arginusae?
After the battle, a storm prevented the rescue of crews from wrecked ships, and many drowned. The Athenian assembly tried the generals as a group, against the law, and executed six of them.
What was Socrates' role after Arginusae?
Socrates was serving on the presiding council during the trial of the generals and opposed the illegal group trial, refusing to put the proposal to a vote.
What happened to the Spartan commander?
The Spartan admiral Callicratidas was killed during the battle, reportedly after falling overboard when his ship was rammed. Around 70 Spartan and allied ships were sunk or captured.
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