The Titans of Civilization: The People Who Shaped the World - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Pericles

Pericles (c. 495 — 429 BCE) was a prominent Athenian statesman and general during the Golden Age of Athens. His leadership and influence left an indelible mark on the city-state's politics, culture, and democracy. Here are the key facts about Pericles:

Early Life and Background:
- Pericles was born into a distinguished Athenian family. His father, Xanthippus, was a well-known politician and military leader.
- He received an excellent education and was exposed to the teachings of prominent philosophers and orators, including Anaxagoras and Zeno.

Leadership in Athens:
- Pericles emerged as a leader in Athens during a time of political and social transformation.
- He was a skilled orator and a charismatic leader, known for his eloquence and ability to inspire the Athenian populace.

Promotion of Democracy:
- Pericles is closely associated with the development of Athenian democracy. He expanded the system of direct democracy, which allowed citizens to participate in decision-making.

Strategos and Military Leadership:
- Pericles served as a general (strategos) for much of his political career. He led the Athenian military in various campaigns, including the First Peloponnesian War against Sparta.

Building Programs:
- Pericles initiated a series of ambitious building projects that transformed Athens into a cultural and architectural marvel.
- The most famous of these projects was the construction of the Parthenon on the Acropolis, which became a symbol of Athenian power and culture.

Delian League and Imperial Athens:
- Pericles played a key role in shaping the Delian League, an alliance of Greek city-states formed to counter Persian influence.
- However, over time, Athens transformed the alliance into an empire with Athens at its center, using the Delian League's resources for its own benefit.

Peloponnesian War:
- Pericles led Athens during the early stages of the Peloponnesian War (431-404 BCE) against Sparta and its allies.
- He adopted a defensive strategy, encouraging Athens' citizens to retreat within the city's walls while relying on the empire's naval power to sustain the city.

Death and Legacy:
- Pericles' leadership was challenged by the devastating Athenian plague that struck during the Peloponnesian War, leading to the deaths of many Athenians, including Pericles himself.
- His death marked a significant turning point in Athenian politics and leadership.

Philosophical and Cultural Impact:
- Pericles supported and patronized many of the great minds of his time, including the philosopher Anaxagoras and the playwrights Aeschylus and Sophocles.
- He encouraged intellectual and artistic development, fostering the flourishing of Athenian drama, philosophy, and culture.

Criticism and Controversy:
- Pericles' leadership was not without criticism. His imperial ambitions and involvement in costly military campaigns faced opposition from some Athenians who believed in more conservative policies.

Significance for Democracy:
- Pericles' contributions to Athenian democracy, cultural achievements, and leadership during a turbulent period have made him a symbol of Athenian ideals and the embodiment of the city-state's democratic spirit.

Pericles' legacy as an Athenian leader is a testament to his dedication to democratic governance, promotion of culture and the arts, and his role in shaping Athens' identity during its Golden Age.