Pericles, Greek politician and orator: “Happiness depends on freedom, and freedom depends on courage”
The great leader of Athens, he ruled during the period of greatest splendor in Greek history when the city-state became the leading cultural center.
Talking about Pericles means speaking of one of the most renowned figures in human history. The Athenian politician and extraordinary orator came from a wealthy aristocratic family with significant political influence in Athens.
He was the son of Xanthippus, famous for leading the Greek fleet in the important Battle of Mycale against the Persians, and Agariste, the niece of the prestigious Athenian lawmaker Cleisthenes and a member of the aristocratic Alcmaeonid family.
Pericles studied under the philosophers Anaxagoras of Clazomenae, Protagoras of Abdera, and Zeno of Elea. Passionate about literature, he even funded performances such as Aeschylus’ tragedy The Persians.
At the age of 30, he began his political career with the Democratic Party of Ephialtes and, following Ephialtes’ assassination, took over its leadership. Under his guidance, the Athenian Assembly passed a series of reforms that strengthened the democratic character of the Athenian state.
A man known as the “first citizen of Athens”
Pericles also distinguished himself as a strategist, excelling especially in naval battles where his fleet was unbeatable. He ordered the reconstruction of the Acropolis and promoted the expansion of Athenian colonies across the Aegean Sea.
He remained Athens’ highest authority until his death in 429 B.C., succumbing to the plague at the age of 64 or 65. Many of Pericles’ sayings and teachings have endured for millennia, but one of the most remembered is: “Happiness depends on freedom, and freedom depends on courage”
Related stories
Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.
Complete your personal details to comment