Cimon

Cimon

Cimon was born in 506 B.C. and died in 499 B.C. during the Siege of Citium either by a wound or by some form of illness. He was the son of Marathon warrior, Miltiades, and went through a difficult childhood due to his father’s conviction after the failed Siege of Paros.

Having a very strong personality whose main trait was logic and a deep love of justice, Cimon quickly became very popular. After having married, Isodice, member of the Alcmaeonidae family, he took over the leadership of the conservative party. He stood out during the Sea Battle of Salamina and, as Commander-in-Chief of the Greek Army, after the removal of Pausanias, he led the fight against the Persians.

He won continuously against the Persians with the most important victory being against the Persian Fleet on the coast of Eurymedon river in Pamphylia. Having exhibited a fondness towards the Spartans, Cimon was accused of bribery by his opponents but was found innocent.

However, in 462/461 B.C., after the Athenian Army was distanced by the Spartans who came to help due to the revolt of the helots (Messenians in Ithome), Cimon was ostracised.

In 453 B.C., the Athenians recalled him and, after he secured peace the Spartans, he organized a new campaign against the Persians during which he lost his life.