Themistocles: The Mind That Saved Athens

Let’s go back to Athens 2,500 years ago…

Themistocles was born around 524 BCE in Athens, a time when the city was already considered highly successful in ancient history but still deeply entrenched in aristocratic power struggles. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Themistocles did not come from a notable lineage. His father, Neocles, was of modest means, and his mother was likely of non-Athenian origin, which made Themistocles an outsider in Athenian society. One can assume this humble beginning shaped his ambition and hunger for recognition.

In Plutarch's Lives, it's noted that

This drive would later push him to pursue power not through birthright but through sheer will and cunning—a path that would forever alter Athens' destiny.

Themistocles Political Career

Themistocles' rise in Athenian politics was meteoric, a testament to his strategic mind and excellent oratory skills.

Throughout this newsletter we have talked about common characteristics of ancient history’s greats.

Here is another example of the need to articulate your thinking in both the written word and through speaking if you want to be great like the ancient figures we study.

Themistocles first significant achievement was his role in the fortification of Piraeus, which would become the heart of Athenian naval power.

Understanding that Athens’ future lay in its command of the sea, Themistocles pushed for the expansion of the navy, a move that was initially met with resistance but would prove crucial in the years to come.

Themistocles recognized the need to appeal to the common citizens, the demos, and he did so by advocating policies that favored the lower classes, like naval expansion, which provided employment and strengthened Athens' defense. Plutarch records that.

Military Career: Strategy, Battles, and Opponents

The crowning achievement of Themistocles’ military career was his role in the Greco-Persian Wars, particularly the Battle of Salamis in 480 BCE. When Xerxes I of Persia invaded Greece.

Fun fact: For fans of of the movie 300 with Gerard Butler - his character, Leonidas (spartan warrior) fought against the same King Xerxes mentioned above.

But back to our character - Themistocles.

Themistocles was instrumental in devising a strategy to confront the vastly superior Persian fleet. He famously tricked the Persian king into believing that the Greek fleet was in disarray and planning to retreat, thereby luring the Persians into the narrow straits of Salamis.

Themistocles’ brilliance lay in his understanding of the terrain and his opponent’s psychology.

The confined waters nullified the numerical superiority of the Persian navy and allowed the smaller, more maneuverable Greek ships to dominate. The victory at Salamis was pivotal, as it halted the Persian advance and preserved Greek independence.

Plutarch quotes Themistocles as saying, "He who commands the sea has command of everything." This insight was the cornerstone of his military strategy, and it ultimately saved Athens and Greece from subjugation.

Beyond Salamis, Themistocles' influence extended far beyond the immediate aftermath of the Persian Wars.

Recognizing that Athens' future security and prosperity depended on its naval supremacy, he initiated extensive fortifications around the port of Piraeus, transforming it into the heart of Athenian naval power.

These efforts were not just about defense but also about ensuring Athens' dominance in trade and influence across the Aegean Sea.

Themistocles' strategic vision created a maritime empire that allowed Athens to project its power across the Mediterranean, facilitating the growth of its economy, culture, and political influence.

His policies set the stage for what would become the Golden Age of Athens, where the city-state would thrive as a center of art, philosophy, and democracy, all underpinned by the very naval strength that Themistocles had so wisely prioritized.

For more history about this part of the world - read about Sertorius.

Themistocles’ Death

Despite his successes, Themistocles’ career ended in exile. His growing power and influence, combined with the envy and suspicion of his peers, led to his exile around 471 BCE. Fearing for his life, Themistocles fled to Persia, the very empire he had once defeated. Ironically, he was received warmly by the Persian king, Artaxerxes I, who appointed him governor of Magnesia.

Plutarch reflects on Themistocles' final years with a mix of admiration and pity:

Themistocles’ death around 459 BCE in Persia remains a topic of debate—whether by natural causes or suicide—but it marked the end of a life that had profoundly influenced the course of Greek history.

What Can We Learn From Themistocles?

1. Adaptability: Embrace change and turn challenges into advantages. During the Battle of Salamis, Themistocles adapted to the overwhelming Persian forces by using the narrow straits of Salamis to his advantage. He recognized that the Persians' numerical superiority would be nullified in confined waters, turning the tide of the battle.

2. Leveraging Relationships: Build and use networks wisely. Themistocles excelled by aligning with key players—relationships are crucial for success in both business and personal life. Just as Themistocles leveraged his relationship with the Athenian populace, building and maintaining strong relationships can provide crucial support when pursuing your goals.

3. Risk-Taking: Take calculated risks to achieve great rewards. Themistocles took a massive risk by engaging the Persian fleet at Salamis. Despite the odds, he believed in his strategy and convinced the Greeks to confront the Persians in a narrow strait, where their large numbers would work against them. The gamble paid off with a decisive victory.

4. Humility: Stay grounded and aware of your limitations. Themistocles' downfall serves as a reminder to remain humble, no matter how successful you become. Recognize the limits of your power and stay aware of the dynamics around you.

5. Persuasion: Master the art of persuasion to align others with your vision. Themistocles used his persuasive skills to convince the Athenians to focus on naval power, which was crucial in defeating the Persians. He also skillfully manipulated the Persian king Xerxes into committing his fleet to the narrow straits of Salamis.

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