Camillus vs Conon

Camillus, as dictator, captured the Etruscan city of Veii after a ten-year siege. This victory expanded Roman territory and brought wealth to Rome, establishing Camillus as a leading general.

Camillus was exiled from Rome after being accused of misappropriating spoils from Veii. He was later recalled during the Gallic crisis, demonstrating the Romans' reliance on his military skill despite political conflicts.

Camillus was in exile when the Gauls defeated the Roman army at the Allia and sacked Rome. He was recalled and appointed dictator to lead the defense, eventually negotiating the Gauls' withdrawal.

After the Gallic sack, Camillus oversaw the rebuilding of Rome, including the reconstruction of temples and fortifications. He also reformed the military, introducing the manipular legion system.

Camillus led campaigns against the Volsci and Aequi tribes, defeating them and securing Roman dominance in central Italy. These victories expanded Roman territory and reduced external threats.

Conon, commanding a Persian fleet, defeated the Spartan navy under Peisander near Cnidus. This victory ended Spartan naval dominance in the Aegean and restored Athenian influence. Conon's use of Persian gold was decisive.

Conon led an Athenian fleet to capture the island of Cythera off the Spartan coast. This established a forward base for raiding Laconia and demonstrated the renewed naval power of Athens under his command.

With Persian funding, Conon oversaw the reconstruction of the Long Walls connecting Athens to Piraeus. This restored Athens' defensive capability and economic lifeline, reversing a key outcome of the Peloponnesian War. The project was completed rapidly.

Conon was sent as an ambassador to the Persian satrap Tiribazus. Suspected of disloyalty to the Persian king, he was imprisoned. He died in captivity, ending his career as a key figure in the Athenian revival.