While King Cambyses of Persia was fighting his war in Egypt, events of great importance were also taking place elsewhere in the Greek world. The conflict in Egypt did not stop other powers from pursuing their own ambitions. At this same time, the Lacedaemonians, also known as the Spartans, sent a military force to the island of Samos. Their target was Polycrates, the son of Aeaces, who had seized control of the island through rebellion Polycrates Considers the Advice of Amasis.
The Rise of Polycrates of Samos
Polycrates did not begin his rule alone. When he first took power, he divided authority over Samos into three parts and ruled together with his two brothers, Pantagnotus and Syloson. This arrangement did not last long. Polycrates soon murdered Pantagnotus and forced Syloson, the younger brother, into exile. After removing both brothers, Polycrates became the sole ruler of the island.
His rise to power was ruthless, but it proved effective. With no rivals left at home, Polycrates was free to strengthen his rule and expand his influence beyond Samos.
Alliance with Egypt
To secure his position, Polycrates formed a friendship with Amasis, the king of Egypt. The two rulers exchanged gifts as signs of goodwill and alliance. This relationship helped Polycrates gain prestige and security, as Egypt was a powerful kingdom at the time. The alliance also showed Polycrates’ skill in diplomacy, as he balanced violence at home with cooperation abroad Sofia Tour Guide.
Growing Power and Fame
Over time, the power of Polycrates grew rapidly. His success became widely known throughout Ionia and across mainland Greece. Wherever Polycrates sent his forces, victory usually followed. His military strength was impressive. He commanded a fleet of one hundred penteconters, fast warships powered by fifty oarsmen each, and he also had one thousand skilled archers.
With this force, Polycrates attacked without mercy. He made no distinction between friends and enemies, believing that a friend would be more grateful to receive back stolen goods than to have been spared from attack in the first place. This harsh policy spread fear but also increased his wealth and influence.
Conquests and Cruel Policies
Polycrates captured many islands in the Aegean Sea and seized several towns along the coast of Asia Minor. His rule was marked by constant warfare and expansion. One of his most notable victories came against the people of Lesbos. When the Lesbians sailed out in full force to help the city of Miletus, Polycrates met them in battle at sea and defeated them.
After this victory, many of the captured Lesbians were taken prisoner. Polycrates treated them harshly, loading them with chains and forcing them to work as laborers. These prisoners were made to dig the great moat that surrounded the fortress of Samos, strengthening the island’s defenses.
The story of Polycrates shows how ambition, violence, and success often went together in the ancient world. While Cambyses was extending Persian power in Egypt, Polycrates was building a maritime empire in the Aegean. Through betrayal, warfare, and bold strategy, he turned Samos into one of the most powerful islands of its time. However, his cruelty toward both enemies and allies alike also planted the seeds of future trouble, proving that great power often comes at a great moral cost.
