Iphicrates – the Reformer-strategist

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Abstract:

Transformations of Iphikrat aim to make peltasts, as far as possible, equivalent to hoplites in face-to-face fight. A long spear allows first 3-4 rows to participate in the battle simultaneously, while in the case of hoplites only the first row actually takes part in the fight. Increasing the strike power is also sought by the introduction of the long sword to which peltasts often resort in contrast of hoplites, who rely primarily on the spear. On the other hand, increased defensive armaments compared to those of the “old” peltasts give Iphikrat’s mercenaries greater resistance in skirmishes with hoplites. Iphikrat’s stay in Thrace from 368 to 360 BC, near Macedonia, and his interference in dynastic struggles there give us a reason to assume that during this period Macedonians were acquainted with innovations of Ifikrat and they are probably the basis for reform in the Macedonian army, held a few years later by Philip II.

Keywords:

Iphikrat, peltasts, hoplites, mercenaries

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