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Amorges

Background

Amorges was a notable historical figure, particularly recognized for his role in the revolts against the Achaemenid Persian Empire during the Peloponnesian War period. Here is an overview of Amorges, his background, and his significance:

Background

1. Son of Pissuthnes:

   • Amorges was the illegitimate son of Pissuthnes, a Persian satrap (governor) of Lydia. Pissuthnes was known for his semi-independent stance and considerable influence in the western part of the Achaemenid Empire.

2. Revolt Against Persia:

   • After Pissuthnes was executed by the order of the Persian king Darius II for his rebellion, Amorges continued his father's legacy by leading a revolt against Persian authority.

Role and Activities

1. Revolt in Caria:

   • Amorges took refuge in Caria, a region in southwestern Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), and garnered support for his rebellion against the Persian Empire. Caria, known for its strategic coastal cities and rugged terrain, provided a suitable base for resistance.

2. Support from Athens:

   • During the Peloponnesian War (431–404 BCE), Amorges allied himself with Athens, which was engaged in a prolonged conflict with Sparta. The Athenians supported his rebellion as part of their strategy to weaken the Persian Empire, which had allied itself with Sparta.
   • Athens provided military and naval assistance to Amorges, helping him to sustain his revolt and challenging Persian control in the region.

Siege of Iasus

1. Capture by the Spartans:

   • In 412 BCE, Sparta, with the support of Persian forces, launched an expedition against Amorges. The Spartan commander, Lysander, besieged the city of Iasus in Caria, where Amorges had taken refuge.
   • The siege was successful, and Amorges was captured by the Spartans. This marked the end of his rebellion against Persian rule.

2. Aftermath:

   • Following his capture, Amorges was handed over to the Persian authorities by the Spartans. His fate after this point is not well-documented, but it is likely that he was executed or imprisoned by the Persians as a punishment for his insurrection.

Significance

1. Strategic Impact:

   • Amorges' rebellion and the subsequent Athenian support highlighted the complex interplay between Greek city-states and the Persian Empire during the Peloponnesian War.
   • His revolt exemplified the broader strategic efforts by Athens to destabilize Persian control in Asia Minor and exploit regional discontent against Persian rule.

2. Diplomatic Relations:

   • The capture of Amorges and the cooperation between Sparta and Persia underscored the shifting alliances and diplomatic maneuvers during the Peloponnesian War. The event demonstrated Persia's ability to influence Greek affairs and the significance of regional revolts in the larger context of Greek-Persian relations.

3. Historical Context:

   • The story of Amorges provides insight into the challenges faced by the Achaemenid Empire in maintaining control over its vast territories. Local rebellions and the involvement of external powers like Athens complicated Persian governance and necessitated a strong military response.

Conclusion

Amorges, the son of the Persian satrap Pissuthnes, played a significant role in the rebellions against the Achaemenid Empire during the Peloponnesian War. His alliance with Athens and subsequent capture by Spartan forces highlighted the intricate dynamics between Greek city-states and Persia. Although his revolt ultimately failed, Amorges' actions exemplified the ongoing resistance to Persian rule in Asia Minor and the strategic importance of regional uprisings in the broader context of ancient geopolitics.

Sources

Andocides, On the Peace with Sparta 3, 29.

Thucydides, The Peloponnesian War VIII 5, 19, 28, 54.