He was a King of Macedon who reigned from approximately 602 BCE to 576 BCE. A member of the royal Argead dynasty, his reign began during significant instability for Macedon.
At the start of Aeropus I’s rule, the kingdom faced invasions from the Thracians and Illyrians, who inflicted heavy losses on the Macedonian forces. Despite their best efforts, the Macedonian army couldn’t secure a decisive victory, leading to growing despair among the soldiers.
In a desperate move, the Macedonian forces, believing they could only succeed with their king present, brought the infant Aeropus into battle. His mere presence on the battlefield rallied the troops and revitalized their spirits.
With renewed strength and determination, the Macedonian soldiers forced the Thracians and Illyrians to flee, eventually driving them entirely out of Macedon.
This moment is considered a pivotal victory during Aeropus’s reign, highlighting his symbolic importance and the loyalty he inspired among his people.
Though Aeropus I’s reign was short and overshadowed by later rulers of Macedon, including his grandson, Alexander the Great, this victory against the invaders remains one of the notable achievements of his leadership.
The article first appeared on Ancient History Vault.
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