Artaxerxes II Mnemon

Background

Artaxerxes II Mnemon, also known as Artaxerxes II, was the king of the Achaemenid Empire from 404 BCE to 358 BCE. His reign was marked by internal struggles, external conflicts, and significant developments within the empire. Artaxerxes II was the son of Darius II and Parysatis, and he succeeded his father to the throne after a period of instability and succession disputes following Darius II's death. His ascension to the throne was not without challenges, as he faced rivals and potential claimants to the throne, including his half-brother Cyrus the Younger.

Artaxerxes II's early reign was marked by challenges to his authority, particularly from Cyrus the Younger, who rebelled against him in the famous "Cyrus the Younger's Rebellion" or the "Anabasis" in 401 BCE. The rebellion culminated in the Battle of Cunaxa, where Cyrus was killed, but it highlighted the internal divisions within the empire. Despite suppressing the rebellion, Artaxerxes II faced ongoing threats to his rule from various quarters, including revolts by satraps and internal dissent.

Artaxerxes II is known for his efforts to consolidate central control over the vast territories of the Achaemenid Empire. He enacted administrative reforms aimed at strengthening the authority of the central government and maintaining stability. He also continued his predecessors' policies of religious tolerance, allowing different cultures and religions within the empire to coexist peacefully.

Conflicts with Greece:

Artaxerxes II's reign saw continued conflicts with the Greek city-states, particularly with Athens and Sparta. He supported Spartan interests in the Peloponnesian War against Athens and provided financial and military assistance to the Spartan side. The Persian intervention in Greek affairs contributed to the ongoing power struggles in Greece and the broader geopolitical landscape of the time.

Conquest of Egypt:

One of the significant achievements of Artaxerxes II's reign was the reconquest of Egypt, which had declared independence during the reign of his predecessor Darius II. In 343 BCE, Artaxerxes II launched a successful military campaign that resulted in the reintegration of Egypt into the Achaemenid Empire.

Artaxerxes II's later years were marked by attempts to maintain peace with the Greek city-states. He negotiated treaties with Athens and other Greek powers, seeking to stabilize the western frontiers of the empire. His diplomatic efforts aimed to secure Persian interests in the region while avoiding costly and protracted conflicts.

Succession and Death:

Artaxerxes II was succeeded by his son Artaxerxes III after his death in 358 BCE. The transition of power was relatively smooth, reflecting Artaxerxes II's efforts to maintain stability within the empire. His reign, though marked by internal challenges and external conflicts, contributed to the longevity of the Achaemenid Empire and the preservation of its vast territorial holdings. Artaxerxes II's reign is significant for its contributions to Persian history and its interactions with the Greek world. His efforts to stabilize the empire and maintain peace with Greece shaped the geopolitical dynamics of the time.

While his reign was marked by internal strife and external conflicts, Artaxerxes II's ability to navigate these challenges and preserve the empire's integrity underscores his significance as a ruler. In summary, Artaxerxes II Mnemon was a pivotal figure in the history of the Achaemenid Empire, known for his efforts to consolidate power, maintain stability, and navigate conflicts with Greece and internal dissent. His reign, though tumultuous, contributed to the endurance of Persian power and its influence in the ancient world.