Themistocles

Themistocles (c. 524–459 BCE) was an Athenian politician and general who played a decisive role in shaping Athens’ navy and its conduct during the Persian Wars.

Born into an aristocratic family, he rose to influence through shrewd diplomacy and populist appeal. As strategos and statesman he urged Athens to build a strong navy funded by revenue from the Laurion mines, and to secure sea access by strengthening ties to the port of Piraeus.

During the Persian Wars, Themistocles helped coordinate Greek strategy. In 480 BCE he commanded the Athenian fleet at Salamis, where the Greeks defeated Xerxes’ larger navy, a victory that preserved Athens’ prominence and contributed to Greece’s ultimate victory in the war.

After a political reversal at home, he was ostracized around 471–470 BCE. He went into exile, first to Argos and then to the Persian court, where he advised on Greek affairs for several years. He died in exile in Asia Minor around 459 BCE.

Themistocles is remembered as a key proponent of naval power in Athens and as a figure illustrating the complex interactions among Greek states and the Persian Empire. His policy helped establish Athens as a major sea power and shaped the early development of Athenian democracy.