Treaty of Philocrates

Definition

The Treaty of Philocrates was a peace agreement made in 346 BCE between Philip II of Macedon and the city-states of Athens, marking a significant moment in the expansion of Macedonian power. This treaty ended the Second Sacred War, allowing Philip to strengthen his influence over the Greek city-states while providing a temporary peace for Athens, which sought to avoid further conflict after suffering military defeats.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Treaty of Philocrates was negotiated after the Battle of Chaeronea, where Philip's forces defeated a combined army of Athenians and their allies.
2. This treaty allowed Philip to secure his position as a powerful leader in Greece without further military campaigns against Athens at that time.
3. One key aspect of the treaty was that it required Athens to recognize Philip's dominance and influence over certain territories in exchange for peace.
4. Although the treaty temporarily brought peace, it was seen as a humiliating concession for Athens and sowed seeds of resentment among its citizens.
5. The treaty's outcomes set the stage for the eventual establishment of Macedonian hegemony over Greece, culminating in the formation of the League of Corinth.

Review Questions

• How did the Treaty of Philocrates impact the relationship between Macedon and Athens?
  • The Treaty of Philocrates significantly altered the relationship between Macedon and Athens by forcing Athens to acknowledge Philip II's growing power and influence in Greece. While it provided a temporary cessation of hostilities and allowed Athens to avoid further military conflict, it also marked a shift in power dynamics where Macedon emerged as the dominant force. The treaty's conditions fostered resentment among Athenians, who viewed it as a surrender rather than a diplomatic resolution.
• What were the major events leading up to the Treaty of Philocrates, and how did they shape its terms?
  • The major events leading up to the Treaty of Philocrates included the ongoing tensions from the Second Sacred War and Philip's decisive victory at the Battle of Chaeronea. These events showcased Macedon's military strength and forced Athens to negotiate for peace. The terms of the treaty reflected this power shift, requiring Athens to concede recognition of Philip's authority and territorial claims. As such, this treaty was shaped by both military outcomes and political necessity.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Treaty of Philocrates on Greek politics and Macedonian expansion.
  • The Treaty of Philocrates had significant long-term effects on Greek politics and facilitated Macedonian expansion. By solidifying Philip II’s dominance over Greece, it weakened traditional city-state alliances and paved the way for Macedon to exert greater control. The treaty's acknowledgment by Athens allowed Philip to focus on further territorial ambitions, leading to the eventual establishment of the League of Corinth. This marked a new era in which Macedonian power not only reshaped Greek political structures but also set the stage for future conflicts under Alexander the Great.

Related terms

Philip II: The king of Macedon from 359 to 336 BCE, Philip II is known for unifying Macedonia and expanding its territory, becoming a dominant force in Greece.

Second Sacred War: A conflict that took place from 355 to 346 BCE, primarily involving the city-states of Greece fighting over control of the sacred site of Delphi, ultimately leading to Philip II's increased influence.

League of Corinth: An alliance established by Philip II in 337 BCE, consisting of Greek city-states, aimed at consolidating his control and providing a united front against external threats.