Pharnabazus II

AncientPoliticianAchaemenid Empire-450 — -370

Satrap who played Athens and Sparta against each other.

Compare Pharnabazus II with another historical figure:

Quick Facts

Born

450 BCE

Died

370 BCE

Country

Achaemenid Empire

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)38

Political (20%)68

Influence (20%)55

Legacy (20%)48

Leadership (15%)68

Strategy (15%)43

Total Score54.4

Pharnabazus II — Complete Timeline

430 BC

Appointed Satrap of DascyliumPolitical Action◆ Major

Pharnabazus II succeeded his father as satrap of Dascylium (Hellespontine Phrygia). He governed this strategic region during the Peloponnesian War, using its resources to influence Greek affairs.

AppointmentSatrapyPeloponnesian War

Impact: regional

412 BC

Alliance with SpartaPolitical Action◆ Major

Pharnabazus II allied with Sparta during the Peloponnesian War, providing financial and naval support to the Spartans against Athens. This alliance helped Sparta build a fleet that challenged Athenian naval dominance.

AlliancePeloponnesian WarSparta

Impact: regionalconstructive

410 BC

Conflict with AthensWar

Pharnabazus II fought against Athenian forces in the Hellespont region, including the Battle of Cyzicus in 410 BC where the Athenian fleet defeated the Spartan-Persian fleet. This setback weakened Persian influence temporarily.

BattlePeloponnesian WarAthens

Impact: regionaldestructive

404 BC

Played Athens and Sparta Against Each OtherPolitical Action◆ Major

After the Peloponnesian War, Pharnabazus II shifted Persian policy, supporting Athens against Sparta to prevent Spartan hegemony. He provided funds to the Athenian general Conon, helping rebuild the Athenian fleet.

DiplomacyBalance of PowerConon

Impact: regionalconstructive