16.1 Causes of Athens' downfall

Athens' downfall during the Peloponnesian War was a complex process. Internal political struggles, including factionalism and demagogues, weakened the city's decision-making. Economic strain and military setbacks, especially naval losses, further eroded Athens' power.

The Sicilian Expedition marked a turning point, draining resources and ending in disaster. Key leaders like Nicias and Alcibiades made critical mistakes. These factors combined to bring about Athens' ultimate defeat against Sparta.

Internal Political Struggles in Athens

Political Infighting and Factionalism

• The Athenian democracy was plagued by political infighting and factionalism during the latter stages of the Peloponnesian War
  • Hindered Athens' ability to make decisive military decisions
  • Prevented maintaining a unified front against Sparta
• The increasing polarization between the democratic and oligarchic factions within Athens led to instability
  • Brief overthrow of democracy in 411 BCE (the rule of the Four Hundred)
  • Brief overthrow of democracy in 404 BCE (the rule of the Thirty Tyrants)

Demagogues and Impulsive Decision-Making

• The rise of demagogues, such as Cleon and Hyperbolus, contributed to the erosion of Athenian political stability
  • Prioritized personal power and popularity over the long-term interests of the state
• The Athenian assembly's tendency to make impulsive and emotionally charged decisions undermined military effectiveness
  • Example: Execution of the generals after the Battle of Arginusae in 406 BCE
    • Undermined military morale and strategic consistency
• The ostracism of influential leaders deprived Athens of experienced military commanders and strategic thinkers at critical junctures in the war
  • Examples: Thucydides and Alcibiades

Key Athenian Leaders and Decline

Nicias and Alcibiades

• Nicias, despite his initial opposition to the Sicilian Expedition, was appointed as one of its commanders due to his reputation for caution and piety
  • His indecisiveness and reluctance to take bold action contributed to the expedition's failure and Athens' subsequent decline
• Alcibiades, a charismatic and ambitious young politician, initially promoted the Sicilian Expedition but defected to Sparta after being accused of sacrilege
  • His defection provided Sparta with valuable intelligence and strategic advice, further weakening Athens' position

Cleon and Demosthenes

• Cleon, a prominent demagogue, advocated for aggressive military policies and the rejection of peace overtures from Sparta
  • His influence on Athenian decision-making prolonged the war and strained Athens' resources
• Demosthenes, an experienced general, attempted to salvage the Sicilian Expedition by bringing reinforcements
  • Ultimately defeated and captured by the Syracusans
  • His capture deprived Athens of a capable military leader in the later stages of the war

Economic and Military Factors in Defeat

Financial Strain and Resource Depletion

• The Peloponnesian War severely drained Athens' financial resources
  • Maintaining a large navy, paying soldiers, and importing food during the prolonged conflict
• The Spartan occupation of Decelea in Attica from 413 BCE onwards disrupted Athens' access to crucial resources
  • Silver mines of Laurium, a vital source of revenue for the Athenian state

Naval Losses and Shifting Alliances

• The Athenian navy, despite its initial superiority, suffered significant losses in the latter stages of the war
  • Particularly during the Sicilian Expedition and the Battle of Aegospotami in 405 BCE
• Sparta's alliance with Persia in 412 BCE provided the Spartans with the financial means to build a strong navy
  • Challenged Athens' maritime dominance and cut off its vital trade routes
• The Athenian practice of requiring tribute from its allies in the Delian League bred resentment
  • Led to rebellions, such as the revolt of Chios, Erythrae, and Clazomenae in 412 BCE, further weakening Athens' position

Significance of the Sicilian Expedition

Turning Point in the War

• The Sicilian Expedition (415-413 BCE) was a turning point in the Peloponnesian War
  • Resulted in a catastrophic defeat for Athens and marked the beginning of its decline
• Athens' decision to launch the expedition was driven by imperialistic ambition and overconfidence in its military capabilities
  • Aimed to conquer the city of Syracuse and extend Athenian power in the western Mediterranean

Diversion of Resources and Strategic Miscalculations

• The expedition diverted a significant portion of Athens' military resources and manpower away from the main theater of war in Greece
  • Left the city vulnerable to Spartan attacks
• The Athenian forces in Sicily were plagued by poor leadership, strategic miscalculations, and unexpected resistance
  • Syracusans were supported by Sparta and Corinth

Devastating Consequences

• The complete destruction of the Athenian expeditionary force in 413 BCE dealt a severe blow to Athens' military strength and morale
  • Resulted in the death or capture of thousands of Athenian soldiers and sailors
• The loss of the Athenian fleet in Sicily allowed Sparta to challenge Athens' naval supremacy
  • Disrupted Athens' vital trade routes, contributing to the economic strain on the city