Filip II of Macedonia - There is no wall that is high enough to stop a horse with a cart filled with gold

Filip II of Macedonia, also known as Philip II, was a King of Macedonia who ruled from 359 BC until his assassination in 336 BC. He is widely considered to be one of the most significant figures in ancient Greek history and played a critical role in the emergence of the Macedonian Empire.

Early Life and Ascension to the Throne:

Filip II was born in Pella, Macedonia in 382 BC to King Amyntas III and Queen Eurydice. He was the youngest of three sons and initially had no expectation of becoming king. However, following the assassination of his eldest brother Alexander II in 359 BC, Filip II was proclaimed King of Macedonia.

As a new king, Filip II inherited a kingdom that was in turmoil, with neighboring tribes raiding Macedonian territory and internal unrest brewing among the nobility. Filip II quickly set about consolidating his power by suppressing rebellions and improving the military capabilities of the Macedonian army.

Military Reforms:

Filip II is renowned for his significant military reforms, which transformed the Macedonian army from a disorganized and poorly equipped force into a professional and disciplined fighting force. Filip II introduced the sarissa, a long spear that was used by the Macedonian phalanx formation, which gave the army greater reach and made it more effective in battle.

Filip II also reorganized the army into distinct units, each with a specific role, and established a system of pay for soldiers, which allowed him to recruit and retain skilled soldiers. By implementing these military reforms, Filip II was able to create one of the most formidable armies in the ancient world.

Expansion of the Macedonian Empire:

With a strong army at his disposal, Filip II set his sights on expanding the Macedonian Empire. He embarked on a series of military campaigns that brought much of Greece under his control, including the cities of Athens and Thebes. Filip II also conquered significant territories in the Balkans, including Thrace, Illyria, and Epirus.

Filip II's ultimate goal was to invade and conquer the Persian Empire, which was the dominant power in the region at the time. He spent several years preparing for this invasion, but unfortunately, he was assassinated before he could execute his plan.

Assassination and Legacy:

Filip II was assassinated in 336 BC at the wedding of his daughter Cleopatra to the King of Epirus. The exact circumstances of his death are unclear, but it is believed that he was killed by a bodyguard named Pausanias, who had a personal vendetta against the king.

Despite his untimely death, Filip II's legacy lived on. He had transformed Macedonia from a minor kingdom into a major power and had set the stage for the conquests of his son, Alexander the Great, who would go on to create one of the largest empires in history.

Filip II's military reforms had a profound impact on ancient warfare, and his use of the phalanx formation and sarissa spear would become the standard for armies throughout the Hellenistic period. Filip II was also known for his diplomatic skill, and he formed alliances with neighboring states to help expand Macedonian influence.

In conclusion, Filip II of Macedonia was a significant figure in ancient Greek history, who transformed the Macedonian army and expanded the Macedonian Empire. His legacy lived on through his son Alexander the Great, who would go on to conquer much of the known world. Filip II's military reforms and diplomatic skill helped to shape the course of ancient history, and he remains a significant figure to this day.