Overview of the Scythians and Surrounding Tribes
The Scythians are characterized as horse-archers, known for their remarkable mobility and archery skills. Surrounding them are the Thracians, considered highland tribes, who are independent warriors equipped with dirks, known as Dii, and primarily inhabit Mount Rhodope. These tribes were often attracted to join armies either through payment or as volunteers. Additional tribal alliances included the Agrianians, Laeaeans, and other Paeonian nations, which united under a single leader. Their territorial boundaries extended near the Graaean Paeonians and the river Strymon, marking the limit of his dominion and the onset of independent Paeonians. The geographical boundaries were further defined by the Triballi, Treres, and Tilataeans, situated to the north.
Geography and Economic Dimensions
The Odrysian Empire's extent was measured from Abdera to the mouth of the Ister in the Euxine Sea, with a maritime journey taking about four days under favorable winds. The shortest land route from Abdera to the Ister required 11 days, whereas the journey from Byzantium to the Strymon approximated 13 days. Tribute collection occurred from the barbarian regions and Greek cities during the reign of Seuthes, who succeeded Sitalces, with an estimated worth of 400 talents of silver, excluding additional gifts of gold and silver.
Cultural and Social Norms
The customs of the Odrysae showcased a social structure that favored taking rather than giving; it was deemed more shameful to refuse to give than not to receive. The commonwealth's sharing of loot and tribute played a significant role in the growth of the Odrysian kingdom, thereby strengthening their economic base.
Key Leaders and Military Movements
Sitalces' military campaigns were noteworthy as he amassed a considerable army, comprising diverse Thracian tribes seeking loot, primarily targeting Macedonia. His army included 150,000 men, with two-thirds being cavalry and a robust infantry component.
The Fall of Plataea
The Plataeans, facing dire circumstances during the siege by the Peloponnesians, had an initial strategy that aimed at reclaiming their rights against enemies who committed injustices. Their final surrender was marked by a reluctance driven by hunger and desperation. Following their surrender, the Lacedaemonians established judges, which led to widespread repercussions for the Plataean populace, including executions.
Athens and the Mytilenean Debate
The fate of Mytilene fluctuated based on political debates in Athens, with split opinions emerging on whether to impose severe punishment or extend sympathy to former allies. Key arguments featured Cleon advocating for immediate punishment to deter future transgressions, while Diodotus countered by arguing for the need to consider long-term implications and justice for the innocent. Ultimately, the political decisions during this tumultuous period illustrated the overarching themes of war, loyalty, and the moral dilemmas confronted by the Hellenic states, leading to a modified approach that favored leniency for innocents despite desires for vengeance against perceived treachery.
