Greek and Macedonian Land Battles of the 4th Century B.C.

With its mixture of famous battles and storied commanders, warfare in 4th century B.C. Greece has long held a fascination for military enthusiasts and the general public alike. Histories, biographies, and popular culture have turned the exploits of noted generals like Xenophon and Iphicrates of Athens, Epaminondas of Thebes, and the father-son team of Philip II and Alexander the Great of Macedonia into the stuff of legend. Drawing from ancient accounts along with suitable analogs, this detailed work offers meticulous reconstructions of 187 of the 4th century’s most significant land engagements, considering tactical patterns, evolving trends, and the lasting impact of the era’s most influential military minds. By separating myth from reality, these recreations provide incredible insight into past ways of war that continue to influence the course of combat today.

Fred Eugene Ray, Jr., is the author of both books and articles on the subject of ancient Greek warfare. A retired geologist and oil industry executive, he lives in Bakersfield, California.

Fred Eugene Ray, Jr.
Format: softcover (7 x 10)
Pages: 244
Bibliographic Info: 3 maps, 10 diagrams, 3 tables, bibliography, index
Copyright Date: 2012
pISBN: 978-0-7864-6973-4
eISBN: 978-1-4766-0006-2
Imprint: McFarland

Preface    1
Introduction    3
I. Sparta Ascendant
Overseas Battles and the Corinthian War (400–387 b.c.)    5
II. Trained in War
Battles Around the Mediterranean;
Chalcidian, Boeotian and Spartan Wars (386–360 b.c.)    38
III. Finding a Master
Rise of Macedonia; Sacred, Persian and Sicilian Wars;
Conquest of Greece (359–336 b.c.)    86
IV. Action and Glory
Battles in the Era of Alexander the Great (335–324 b.c.)    138
V. Many Great Combats
Battles of the Successors (323–301 b.c.)    174
Conclusions    210
Appendices: Pitched Battles 400–301 b.c.
1: Combat Factors    213
2: Decisive Factors     217
3: Heavy Infantry Losses and Point/Cause of Formation Failure  221
Bibliography    227
Index    233

• “This is a useful study of this period, providing an interesting overview of one of the most important periods in ancient military history.”—History of War
• “A fine book…recommend”—H-Net Reviews