Persian exiles at Macedonian court

The presence of Persian exiles at the Macedonian court played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape during the time of Alexander the Great. These exiles, who sought refuge from the oppressive rule of Artaxerxes III, were granted protection by Philip II of Macedon. Among the notable figures were Artabazos II, a Persian noble, and his daughter Barsine, who is speculated to have been a future mistress of Alexander. Their stay at the court, which lasted for a decade, provided the Macedonian leadership with valuable insights into Persian politics and culture. Additionally, Amminapes, who would later become a satrap under Alexander, and another noble named Sisines were also part of this group. The interactions between these exiles and the Macedonian court likely facilitated a deeper understanding of Persian governance and military strategies, which would prove beneficial for Alexander in his future conquests.