Artaxerxes III Forces Peace with Athens

Artaxerxes III ascended to the throne following the death of his father, Artaxerxes II. His reign marked a pivotal moment in the relationship between Persia and Athens, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflicts in Asia Minor. The Athenian forces had been actively involved in the region, supporting various rebellious factions against Persian control. This involvement was part of a broader struggle for influence and power in the area, which had significant implications for both Persian and Athenian interests. In response to these challenges, Artaxerxes III took decisive action to restore order and assert Persian dominance. He compelled Athens to negotiate a peace agreement that mandated the withdrawal of Athenian military presence from Asia Minor. This agreement also required Athens to recognize the independence of its allied states that had been in rebellion against Persian authority. The outcome of this peace treaty not only curtailed Athenian influence in the region but also reinforced the power of the Persian Empire, demonstrating Artaxerxes III's commitment to stabilizing his realm and countering external threats. The implications of this agreement were far-reaching, as it altered the balance of power in the region and set the stage for future interactions between the two states.