History of Artaxerxes III

Artaxerxes III, also known as Ochus, was a significant ruler of the Achaemenid Empire, reigning from 358 BC to 338 BC. His rise to power and subsequent rule marked a period of consolidation and reassertion of imperial strength in the vast Persian Empire. As a politician, Artaxerxes III demonstrated a keen understanding of both internal and external dynamics, employing a range of strategies to maintain and expand his authority.

Before becoming king, Artaxerxes III held the name Ochus and was a son of Artaxerxes II. His early life was characterized by the complexities and intrigues typical of Persian court politics. The transition from a prince to the ruler was not without struggle; upon the death of his father, Ochus had to eliminate rival claimants to secure his throne, an initial move that set a tone for his reign. This purge, which included the execution of many brothers and prominent officials, was brutal but effective in preventing immediate internal discord.

Artaxerxes III’s political acumen was profoundly tested by the state of the empire he inherited. The Achaemenid Empire during the time was vast but plagued by rebellion and economic difficulties. Discontent in the various satrapies (provinces), especially in places like Egypt, which had gained a level of autonomy under previous rulers, represented a persistent challenge. Artaxerxes III's primary domestic policy was the centralization of power and the reassertion of imperial control, geared towards ensuring the stability and prosperity of the empire.

One of the central focuses of Artaxerxes III’s reign was the reconquest and reestablishment of control over Egypt, which had been under Persian domination before regaining independence. Egypt had become a bastion of resistance against Persian rule, and its recapture was both a strategic and symbolic goal for Artaxerxes. In his initial attempts, he encountered resistance and faced defeats; however, showing political resilience, he regrouped and launched a more successful campaign in 343 BC. This second campaign witnessed the strategic and military proficiency of Artaxerxes, culminating in the capture of Memphis and the successful annexation of Egypt back into the empire. This victory had a profound stabilizing effect, demonstrating his effectiveness as a statesman and military strategist.

Internationally, Artaxerxes III’s reign involved interactions with the Greek city-states, an ongoing concern for the Persian Empire. The political landscape of Greece was fragmented, and Artaxerxes skillfully managed these divisions, often supporting one city-state against another, thereby preventing them from uniting against Persia. This policy of manipulation through diplomacy and occasional military intervention kept potential threats at a manageable level. During this period, both Thebes and Athens were significant powers, and the king's support shifted depending on the prevailing geopolitical circumstances.

Artaxerxes III also engaged in what one might call an economic war, hitting rivals not just with military might but also by fostering economic dependencies and utilizing tributes effectively. This policy not only enriched the Persian treasury but also ensured that rebellious regions were economically bound to the empire. The careful management of the empire’s resources and wealth played a critical role in his political scheme, facilitating not just military campaigns but also the lavish displays of Persian power, which reinforced his authority internally.

His domestic policies were characterized by administrative efficiency and a reinforcement of the royal power. Artaxerxes III continued the practice of appointing satraps but kept an eye on their ambitions, ensuring that none became too powerful or independent. He enforced loyalty through a mixture of fear and incentive, proving adept at balancing the imperatives of autocratic rule with the diverse needs of his subjects. This delicate balancing act was essential in maintaining the cohesion of such a vast empire.

Artaxerxes III’s reign also saw significant building projects and developments in Persian architecture and infrastructure. These projects were not merely for aesthetic or utilitarian purposes but were integral to the political theater of Achaemenid rule. By commissioning grand palaces and other monumental structures, Artaxerxes III asserted the glory and divine favor of his reign, reinforcing perceptions of legitimacy and power throughout his domains.

In summary, Artaxerxes III, as a politician and ruler, was marked by his effectiveness in consolidating control over a fragmented empire. His reign, albeit punctuated by violence and authoritarian measures, was successful in maintaining the integrity of the Persian Empire during a period that could have easily devolved into further chaos and dissolution. Artaxerxes III’s blend of military prowess, strategic diplomacy, and domestic policy innovations made him a formidable ruler who steadfastly maintained his domain's stability in the face of internal and external challenges. His legacy set the stage for the subsequent dynamics in the region, influencing both contemporaries and successors in a continuously tumultuous era.