Iphicrates

Iphicrates led his reformed peltasts to a decisive victory over a Spartan hoplite regiment at Lechaeum near Corinth. The Spartans were annihilated, demonstrating the effectiveness of light infantry against heavy infantry. This was a major blow to Spartan military prestige.

Iphicrates reorganized and reequipped the Athenian light infantry (peltasts). He introduced longer spears, lighter shields, and better training. These reforms made the peltasts more effective in battle, capable of engaging heavier hoplites.

Iphicrates served as a mercenary commander for the Thracian king Cotys I. He married Cotys's daughter and helped expand Thracian power. This period demonstrated his skills as a commander outside the Athenian sphere.

Iphicrates was appointed as a commander in the Social War against rebellious Athenian allies. After a failed engagement at Embata, he was prosecuted alongside Timotheus. He was acquitted but his career was effectively ended.