Aratus of Sicyon -270 – -212

Biography

Aratus of Sicyon was born on January 1, 270 BCE, in the city of Sicyon, where he would become one of the most influential figures of his era. Throughout his life, he distinguished himself as a skilled statesman and military leader whose influence shaped the political landscape of ancient Greece during a transformative period.

Rising to prominence in the Greek world, Aratus served as strategos—the highest military and political office—of the Achaean League, a confederation of Greek city-states. In this role, he demonstrated both diplomatic acumen and military prowess, working to advance the interests and unity of the League during a time of considerable regional tension and competition among Greek powers.

Aratus’s life came to an end on January 1, 212 BCE, in Athens, when he died from poisoning. His death marked the conclusion of a remarkable career devoted to Greek leadership and statecraft. He was laid to rest at the Heroon of Aratus in his native Sicyon, where his memory was honored and preserved by those who remembered his contributions to his city and the broader Greek world.