He was a Greek mercenary general and commander who played a significant role in Egypt's military and political affairs during the 4th century BCE.
Mentor of Rhodes was originally from the Greek island of Rhodes and became known for his leadership during the reign of Nectanebo II, the last native pharaoh of Egypt.
Mentor's involvement in Egypt began when Nectanebo II hired him to lead Egyptian forces against external threats, particularly the advancing Persian Empire. The Egyptian pharaoh trusted Mentor and he became an influential military advisor and commander. However, his loyalty shifted during the Persian invasion of Egypt.
In a dramatic turn of events, Mentor defected to the Persian side. His betrayal occurred during the Persian king Artaxerxes III’s invasion of Egypt in 343 BCE. Mentor's defection significantly weakened Egypt's defence, as he had been an experienced and capable military leader.
His knowledge of Egyptian tactics and his skills as a commander made him a valuable asset to the Persians. Mentor's betrayal helped Artaxerxes III defeat Nectanebo II, leading to the pharaoh's eventual flight into exile. After his defection, Mentor continued to serve under the Persians and became a prominent figure in Persian military campaigns.
Mentor of Rhodes' defection is one of the key events that contributed to the downfall of the 30th Dynasty and the eventual Persian reconquest of Egypt.
- Name: Mentor of Rhodes
- Born: Date unknown, Rhodes
- Died: Date unknown, (likely in Persian service)
- Age at Death: Unknown
- Job Title: Mercenary General
The article first appeared in Ancient History Vault.
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