Themistocles: Hero Of The Persian Wars

“Themistocles should be remembered forever as the hero of the Persian Wars.” Discuss this statement.

Themistocles should be remembered forever as the hero of the Persian Wars; although, there were other important individuals and factors which also contributed to the Grecian success during the time period of 490BC – 479BC. Themistocles began his successful heroism during the Battle at Marathon. His contribution (although rather small at this point in history) can be discussed as helpful. Themistocles began his noticeable achievements during the time period between the Wars, in which he made valuable decisions in changing the course of the Persian Wars. Themistocles battle strategies and tactics are also recognisable throughout the Battle
Although his contribution to this battle which defined Ancient Greek battle tactics, he was apart of the movement which inevitably saved the lives of the Grecians. More specifically, Themistocles was involved in the Pincer Movement. This battle strategy, designed by Athenian leader Miltiades, involved Athenian soldiers forming a thin front line with a strong rear sides. The idea behind this strategy was that the strongest of Athenian soldiers would stand on the front line and attack, while a greater majority of other soldiers would begin to encircle the opposing army. If it was not for Themistocles (and a great deal many Athenian solders) contribution to this major battle, the outcome of the Persian Wars may have been vastly different. This was Themistocles first small step to
Themistocles strategic planning and brilliant mind was set to extreme levels of challenge in which he overcame with charisma. A specific luck factor between 483BC and 480BC was the discovery of silver at the site of Laurium. Initially, Ancient Greece had decided to split the silver vein equally between the citizens of the country. Themistocles was secretly aware of a future uprising from the Persian Empire. His battle tactic was to use the money from the silver to build extensive Triremes – a form of aquatic transportation. A Trireme was a lighter, more mobile way of travel around the seas; as well as providing an efficient method of battle against the Persians. Themistocles knew that the Persian Army out numbered his army 10:1. On water, this ratio would reduce rapidly. In Themistocles mind, it was the only way to resourcefully stop a Persian invasion. Themistocles manipulated his assembly into agreeing this plan by informing them that the Triremes would be used for battle against Aegina; a threatening polis inside Greece. If it was not for this scheming method, Ancient Greece may not be the nation it is today. Themistocles also added to good preparation before the battle through the Oracle at Delphi. The Oracle’s first prediction was of sinister content for the Ancient