Artaxerxes III's Campaign in Egypt

Artaxerxes III initiated a military campaign to reclaim Egypt, which had revolted against Persian rule. This campaign was a response to the challenges posed by the Egyptian Pharaoh Nectanebo II, who had successfully resisted Persian authority. Artaxerxes III assembled a large army to confront the Egyptian forces, aiming to restore Persian dominance in the region. The conflict involved significant military engagements, with both sides employing various strategies and tactics. Despite the initial mobilization and efforts by Artaxerxes III, the campaign ultimately resulted in a decisive defeat for the Persian forces. Nectanebo II, supported by Greek mercenaries led by generals Diophantus and Lamius, managed to inflict substantial losses on the Persians. This defeat not only marked a setback for Artaxerxes III but also reinforced the independence of Egypt from Persian control, highlighting the challenges faced by the Achaemenid Empire in maintaining its territories. The campaign's failure had lasting implications for Persian influence in Egypt and demonstrated the resilience of local powers against imperial ambitions.