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Orontobates

Background

Orontobates was a significant figure in the late Achaemenid Persian Empire and the early Hellenistic period, known for his military and political roles during the time of Alexander the Great's conquests. Here is a detailed account of his life and activities:

Background and Marriage

• Persian Nobility: Orontobates was a Persian nobleman, whose name in Old Persian is Aurandabad. He became intertwined with the ruling families of Caria through marriage.
• Marriage Alliance: He married the daughter of Pixodarus, the satrap of Caria. Pixodarus had usurped the satrapy, and Orontobates was sent by the Persian king to succeed him, solidifying his authority in the region through this strategic marital alliance.

Defense of Halicarnassus

• Approach of Alexander: In 334 BC, as Alexander the Great advanced into Asia Minor, Orontobates, alongside Memnon of Rhodes, prepared to defend Halicarnassus, a crucial stronghold in Caria.
• Siege of Halicarnassus: Despite their efforts to fortify and defend the city, the situation became untenable. Orontobates and Memnon ultimately set fire to Halicarnassus and retreated to the island of Cos, taking their treasures with them.
• Continued Resistance: Even after the fall of Halicarnassus, Orontobates retained control of several important locations, including the citadel at Salmacis and the towns of Myndus, Caunus, Thera, Callipolis, and Triopium.

Military Engagements

• Defeat by Ptolemy and Asander: The following year, while Alexander was in Soli, Cilicia, he learned that Orontobates had suffered a significant defeat at the hands of Ptolemy and Asander, two of Alexander’s commanders. This defeat likely led to the rapid collapse of the remaining strongholds under Orontobates’s control.

Potential Role at Gaugamela

• Battle of Gaugamela: An officer named Orontobates is recorded to have been present at the Battle of Gaugamela in 331 BC, commanding troops from the Persian Gulf region. It is uncertain if this was the same Orontobates or a different individual bearing the same name. Regardless, this highlights the widespread use of similar names and the complex network of Persian military leaders during this period.

Relationship with Alexander the Great

• Connection through Marriage Proposals: There is an intriguing connection between Orontobates and Alexander that adds a layer of complexity to their relationship. In his youth, Alexander had sought to marry Ada II, the daughter of Pixodarus, to strengthen his position. This marriage proposal was negated by his father, Philip II. Orontobates, however, married a daughter of Pixodarus, possibly the same Ada II. This connection suggests that Alexander and Orontobates may have had a more intricate personal relationship than is commonly understood.

Conclusion

Orontobates played a crucial role during a pivotal time in history. His defense of Halicarnassus, retreat to Cos, and subsequent military engagements reflect the turbulent and dynamic nature of the period. His potential presence at the Battle of Gaugamela and his connection to Alexander through marriage alliances add depth to his story. Although ultimately defeated, Orontobates's actions and the resistance he mounted against Alexander's forces demonstrate the resilience and complexity of the Persian Empire in its final years.

Sources

Smith, William (editor); Dictionary of Greek and Roman Biography and Mythology, "Orontobates (1)", Boston, (1867)

Arrian, Anabasis Alexandri, i. 18, ii. 5; Curtius Rufus, Historiae Alexandri Magni, iii. 7.

Arrian, iii. 8.

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