Brasidas and Perdiccas Expedition
Brasidas and Perdiccas united their forces for a campaign against Arrhibaeus in Lyncus, fielding approximately 3,000 heavy-armed Hellenic forces along with 1,000 cavalry, which included barbarian reinforcements. The initial confrontation with the Lyncestians took place on opposing hills, leading to a chaotic battle where the Lyncestians were defeated and compelled to retreat. Following the victory, both generals raised a trophy and awaited Illyrian reinforcements that ultimately did not arrive, prompting them to consider advancing on Arrhibaeus’s villages.
Retreat and Betrayal
Upon receiving news of the Illyrians joining Arrhibaeus, fear spread among both generals, leading them to contemplate retreat. That night, a mass panic ensued among the Macedonian forces, resulting in their flight home without consulting Brasidas. As chaos unfolded, Brasidas prepared for a strategic retreat, organizing a rearguard formation to ensure safe passage.
Charge Against the Athenians
After a brief period of inactivity, Brasidas rallied his men to counterattack the regrouping Lyncestians. Through an inspiring speech emphasizing courage over numbers, he successfully incited his troops to charge. The allied forces of Brasidas launched an unexpected assault, causing the Athenian soldiers to flee in disarray.
Aftermath and Withdrawal
Following their victory, the Macedonians regrouped and retreated back to their territory. Over time, tensions mounted between Perdiccas and Brasidas, introducing further discord with the Athenian forces.
Athenian and Argive Relations
Despite initial cooperation, tensions escalated between Athens and the Lacedaemonians due to unfulfilled treaty conditions, particularly concerning Amphipolis and other disputed territories. Alcibiades emerged as a significant military figure within Athens, advocating for strong action against Lacedaemonian provocations and promoting an alliance with Argos.
The Treaty and Subsequent Conflicts
A peace treaty was ultimately agreed upon to last for fifty years, setting guidelines for mutual defense and diplomatic relations. Yet, both parties quickly shifted focus toward military buildups, as the Lacedaemonians sought to reassert power in Peloponnesus, fearing Argive alliances that threatened their dominance. The Argives leaned towards cooperation with Athenian forces rather than Lacedaemonian terms, leading to further division within the Peloponnesian League.
The Cycle of Violence
Despite the initial treaties, skirmishes persisted among allied states, notably between the Argives and Elidians amid other regional conflicts. Tensions further escalated when Alcibiades publicly called for action against Levpreon, resulting in another military venture by the Argives under uncertain circumstances.
Final Remarks
The ongoing cycles of mistrust and military conflict highlight a recurring theme throughout Athenian and Spartan relations. The intricate web of alliances and military strategies adopted by both sides underscores the persistent uncertainties of peace within this historical context.
This summary encapsulates the key events of the campaigns led by Brasidas and Perdiccas, the subsequent retreats, evolving Athenian-Lacedaemonian alliances and treaties, as well as the shifting dynamics within the Peloponnesian League, culminating in the recognition of a fragile peace laden with future conflicts.