Lysimachus vs Philip II of Macedon

Lysimachus declared himself king of Thrace, establishing a Hellenistic kingdom in the region. He ruled over Thrace, parts of Asia Minor, and later Macedonia, but his kingdom was short-lived and fragmented after his death.

Lysimachus fought alongside Seleucus I against Antigonus I at Ipsus. The victory allowed Lysimachus to expand his territory in Asia Minor, gaining control of much of Anatolia. However, his alliance with Seleucus later turned to conflict.

Lysimachus ordered the execution of his son Agathocles on the instigation of his wife Arsinoe II. This act caused a revolt among his subjects and led to the defection of many supporters to Seleucus, weakening Lysimachus' position before Corupedium.

Lysimachus fought against Seleucus I at Corupedium in Lydia. He was defeated and killed in battle, ending his rule. This victory allowed Seleucus to claim control over Asia Minor, but Seleucus was assassinated shortly after.

Philip II reorganized the Macedonian army, introducing the sarissa (long pike) and the phalanx formation. He also improved cavalry tactics and logistics, creating a professional, disciplined force that was superior to Greek hoplite armies.

Philip II led the Macedonian army to a decisive victory over the combined forces of Athens and Thebes at Chaeronea. The battle ended Greek independence and established Macedonian hegemony over Greece. Philip's son Alexander commanded the cavalry on the left wing.

Philip II established the League of Corinth, a federation of Greek states under Macedonian leadership. The league declared war on Persia and appointed Philip as its commander-in-chief, laying the groundwork for Alexander's later invasion.

Philip II was assassinated by his bodyguard Pausanias at the wedding of his daughter Cleopatra in Aegae. The motive remains unclear, but his death led to the immediate succession of his son Alexander the Great, who continued his plans for the Persian invasion.