Battle of Chaeronea (338 BC): What Happened
In August 338 BC, Philip II of Macedon defeated an alliance of Athens and Thebes at Chaeronea in Boeotia, in the battle that ended the independence of the Greek city-states. The Athenian orator Demosthenes had spent years warning against Philip's growing power and finally persuaded Athens and its old rival Thebes to join forces. The two armies were roughly equal in size, perhaps around 30,000 to 35,000 men each. According to many accounts, Philip commanded the right wing and staged a controlled retreat, tempting the Athenians to advance and open a gap in the allied line. Philip's 18-year-old son Alexander led the Macedonian cavalry on the left and broke through the Theban lines. The elite Sacred Band of Thebes fought to the last man. A stone lion monument was later raised at Chaeronea, near a burial that excavators linked to the Sacred Band, and it still stands today. After the battle, Philip treated Athens relatively generously but placed a garrison in Thebes. Macedon was now the master of Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Battle of Chaeronea?
The Battle of Chaeronea, in August 338 BC, was fought in Boeotia between Philip II of Macedon and an alliance of Athens and Thebes. Philip's victory ended the independence of the Greek city-states.
What role did Alexander the Great play at Chaeronea?
Philip's 18-year-old son Alexander led the Macedonian cavalry on the left wing and broke through the Theban lines, playing a key role in the victory.
Who persuaded Athens and Thebes to fight Philip?
The Athenian orator Demosthenes spent years warning against Philip's power and finally persuaded Athens and its old rival Thebes to unite against him.
What happened to the Sacred Band at Chaeronea?
The elite Sacred Band of Thebes fought to the last man rather than retreat. Their stand became a legendary example of courage.
Can you visit the Lion of Chaeronea?
Yes. The Lion of Chaeronea, a stone monument raised after the battle near a burial linked to the Sacred Band, still stands beside the road near the village of Chaeronea in Boeotia.
More Events from Classical Greece
