Pyrrhus

Pyrrhus of Epirus (319/318–272 BC) was a Greek general and statesman of the Hellenistic period. He was king of the Molossians and later became king of Epirus and Macedon. Pyrrhus is best known for his campaigns against the Roman Republic and his costly military victories, which gave rise to the term "Pyrrhic victory".

Early Life

Pyrrhus was born into the royal Aeacidae dynasty of Epirus. His father was Aeacides of Epirus, and his mother was Phthia of Epirus. At the age of two, Pyrrhus was dethroned along with his family and taken to the court of Glaukias, the king of the Taulantii.

Rise to Power

With the help of Glaukias, Pyrrhus was restored to the throne of Epirus in 306 BC. He later married Antigone of Epirus, the stepdaughter of Ptolemy I Soter, which helped him secure an alliance with the Ptolemaic Kingdom.

Military Campaigns

Pyrrhus is most famous for his military campaigns in Italy and Sicily. In 280 BC, he responded to a call for help from the Greek city of Tarentum in southern Italy, which was under threat from Rome. Pyrrhus won several battles against the Romans, including the Battle of Heraclea and the Battle of Asculum, but suffered heavy losses.

Pyrrhic Victories

The term "Pyrrhic victory" originates from Pyrrhus's costly victories against the Romans. Despite winning battles, the heavy casualties weakened his army, leading him to famously remark, "One more such victory and we are lost."

Later Years and Death

After his campaigns in Italy, Pyrrhus turned his attention to Sicily, where he fought against the Carthaginians. He eventually returned to Epirus and later engaged in conflicts in Greece. Pyrrhus died in 272 BC during a street fight in Argos.

Legacy

Pyrrhus is remembered as one of the greatest military commanders of his time. His tactics and strategies were studied by later generals, including Hannibal and Julius Caesar.

Related Pages

• Epirus
• Molossians
• Hellenistic period
• Roman Republic
• Pyrrhic victory
• Battle of Heraclea
• Battle of Asculum
• Tarentum
• Ptolemaic Kingdom
• Carthaginians
• Argos