Perdiccas III of Macedon, a reign characterised by defending his borders against the Illyrians

Perdiccas III of Macedon (reigned 368–359 BCE) was a ruler of the ancient Kingdom of Macedon and a member of the Argead dynasty.

As the son of Amyntas III and Eurydice I, Perdiccas inherited the throne during a turbulent period marked by both internal strife and external threats. His reign was characterised by efforts to stabilise the kingdom and defend its borders against the Illyrians, who posed a significant challenge to Macedonian security.

He faced difficulties maintaining control over his realm despite his attempts to assert authority. His reign ended in 359 BCE during a military campaign against the Illyrians.

Perdiccas and much of his army were killed in battle, leaving the throne to his infant son, Amyntas IV. However, his brother, Philip II, ultimately assumed power, ushering in a transformative era for Macedon.

Perdiccas III’s leadership, though short-lived, laid important groundwork for the kingdom's future consolidation under Philip II and Alexander the Great.

The article first appeared in Ancient History Vault.

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