Perikles vs Thrace, 447 BC

Taking as its starting point the Athenian casualty list IG I3 1162.45–48 , this paper examines Perikles’ campaign in the Thrakian Chersonesos, generally dated to 447 BC. In particular, the paper considers ways in which Perikles’ “fondly remembered” campaign may have helped the Greek cities of the area, who were beset by hostile Thrakians both inside and outside the peninsula. Various possible avenues of assistance are canvassed: the building of a wall across the neck of the peninsula; the settlement of Athenian klerouchs; a reduction in tribute; and, hypothetically, the expulsion of Thrakian inhabitants from the interior of the peninsula. The paper argues that the last two possibilities are probably the most important.