Hellenistic Greece

Definition and Timeline

The Hellenistic period is a term coined in the 19th century by Johann Gustav Droysen to describe a period in the history of Ancient Greece. It spans from the death of Alexander Centralon (Alexander III of Macedon) in 323 BC to the Roman conquest of Greece in 146 BC.

Background and Rise of Hellenistic Kingdoms

Following the death of Philip II of Macedon, his son Alexander III of Macedon succeeded him as king in 336 BC. Alexander's military campaigns expanded the empire, but after his death, his vast territories were divided among his generals, leading to the establishment of several Hellenistic kingdoms.

Macedonian Domination and Wars

Macedonia's dominance over mainland Greece was established during Alexander's reign. In 335 BC, Alexander returned from a campaign against the Illyrians and besieged Thebes, which had risen in rebellion. After a fierce battle, Alexander ordered the city to be burned, and its inhabitants were either displaced or sold into slavery.

Roman Conquest

In 215 BC, a series of wars began between ancient Rome and Macedonia during and after the Second Punic War. As a result of their victory in these wars, Rome gained hegemony over the entire Mediterranean region. The Hellenistic period came to an end with the Roman conquest of Greece in 146 BC.

Political Structure

Greece was divided between the police (the largest in continental Greece) and alternative political institutions based on federal structures. These entities were incorporated into two main alliances: the Achaean League and the Aetolian League.

Naval Power

In the marine field, the old poleis of the Classical period, headed by Athens and Rhodes, played a significant role. However, their naval power never reached its peak during this period.

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