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Pixodarus

Background

Pixodarus (Greek: Πιξώδαρος) was a notable figure in ancient Caria, a region in southwestern Anatolia. He was a member of the Hecatomnid dynasty, which ruled Caria as a satrapy under the Persian Empire. His political maneuvers and interactions with key figures of the time, including Alexander the Great, highlight the complex web of alliances and power struggles in the Hellenistic period. Here is a detailed account of his life and significance:

Background and Rise to Power

• Hecatomnid Dynasty: Pixodarus was a member of the Hecatomnid dynasty, which included several prominent rulers such as Mausolus and Artemisia II. This dynasty was known for its semi-autonomous rule over Caria and its contributions to the region's cultural and architectural heritage.
• Satrap of Caria: Pixodarus succeeded his brother Idrieus as the satrap of Caria around 340 BCE. As satrap, he governed the region on behalf of the Persian Empire, maintaining a degree of independence and local authority.

Political Maneuvers and Marriage Alliances

• Marriage Proposal: In 337 BCE, Pixodarus sought to strengthen his position by arranging a marriage alliance with the Macedonian royal family. He proposed that his daughter marry Arrhidaeus (later known as Philip III), the half-brother of Alexander the Great. This proposal was likely aimed at securing Macedonian support and solidifying his power in Caria.
• Alexander's Interference: According to historical accounts, Alexander the Great intervened in this marriage proposal. He was reportedly offended by the idea that Pixodarus considered Arrhidaeus, who was seen as less capable, a suitable match for his daughter. Alexander himself offered to marry Pixodarus' daughter instead, demonstrating his ambition and desire to assert his influence.

Downfall and Death

• Persian and Macedonian Politics: The political landscape during Pixodarus' rule was highly volatile, with ongoing conflicts between the Persian Empire and the rising power of Macedon under Philip II and Alexander the Great. Pixodarus' attempts to navigate this complex environment ultimately led to his downfall.
• Conquest by Alexander: When Alexander the Great began his campaign against the Persian Empire, Caria was one of the regions he targeted. In 334 BCE, Alexander captured Halicarnassus, the capital of Caria, after a fierce siege. Pixodarus either fled or was killed during this conflict, leading to the end of his rule.
• Succession by Ada: After the fall of Halicarnassus, Alexander reinstated Ada, the sister of Mausolus and Pixodarus, as the satrap of Caria. Ada had previously been ousted by Pixodarus but was restored to power as a loyal ally of Alexander.

Legacy

• Cultural Contributions: Despite his political maneuvers and eventual downfall, Pixodarus' rule is notable for its contributions to Carian culture and architecture. The Hecatomnid dynasty, to which he belonged, is remembered for monumental constructions such as the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• Historical Accounts: The interactions between Pixodarus and Alexander the Great are documented by ancient historians such as Plutarch and Arrian. These accounts provide valuable insights into the dynamics of power and diplomacy in the Hellenistic period.

Conclusion

Pixodarus of Caria was a significant political figure who attempted to secure his position through strategic alliances and diplomacy. His interactions with Alexander the Great highlight the intricate and often precarious nature of Hellenistic politics. Despite his ultimate failure to maintain power, Pixodarus' legacy endures through the historical records and the cultural achievements of the Hecatomnid dynasty.

Sources

Smith, William (editor); Dictionary of Greek and Roman Biography and Mythology, "Pixodarus (2)", Boston, (1867)

Diodorus Siculus, Bibliotheca, xvi. 74; Arrian, Anabasis Alexandri, i. 23; Strabo, Geography, xiv. 2; Plutarch, Parallel Lives, "Alexander", 10

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