Lakrates

Lakrates (Latinized Lacrates ) was from Thebes derived Greek v commander in the fourth century. BC, who was temporarily under the Persian great king Artaxerxes III. was active.

The historian Diodor reports in connection with the uprising of the Sidonian King Tennes around 346/345 BC. As well as the preparations for the later campaign against Egypt, that in the army of Artaxerxes III. 10,000 Greeks were integrated, including 4,000 mercenaries from various cities in the Greek motherland at the special request of the great king  , although Athens and Sparta had turned down. Among the 4,000 mercenaries recruited by the Persian king were 1,000 Theban hoplites whom Lakrates is said to have commanded.

In the winter of 342/341 BC Artaxerxes III conquered. Egypt . The credibility of the details handed down by Diodorus are disputed. Lakrates is said to have led the front of the three attacking armies together with the Persian satrap Rhosakes , which first proceeded against Pharaoh Nectanebos II , while Artaxerxes III. initially kept in the background. The armed forces of Lakrates and Rhosakes are said to have included a large cavalry unit.

Diodorus' glorification of Greek generals and soldiers is striking. In his stories, they are repeatedly called upon on the front line of war for particularly difficult tasks, and their tactical advice is also asked for. Diodorus denies these qualities to the Persians, Egyptians or Sidonians, because they are the ones in need of Greek help. The information provided by Diodorus is therefore very questionable, which is why a reliable historical confirmation of the details described cannot be made.

literature

• Pierre Briant : From Cyrus to Alexander: A History of the Persian Empire . Eisenbrauns, Winona Lake 2002, ISBN 1-575-06031-0 .

Individual evidence

1. ↑ Diodorus 16.44.2 .
2. ^ ^{A b} Pierre Briant: From Cyrus to Alexander: A History of the Persian Empire . Pp. 784-785; with reference to Diodorus 16.47.2 .