Pericles

Pericles (c. 495–429 BC) was a pivotal figure in Ancient Greece, renowned for his roles as a statesman, military leader, and orator. Emerging from an aristocratic background, he wielded significant influence in Athenian politics during the era spanning from the Greco-Persian Wars to the onset of the Peloponnesian War. Pericles is celebrated for: championing democratic principles, fostering intellectual pursuits, architectural innovations, and cultural advancements, spearheading the construction of the Acropolis, including its iconic centerpiece, the Parthenon, consolidating Athens’ power by centralizing the treasury of the Delian League in Athens in 454 BC, thereby establishing Athens as an imperial power, guiding Athens through the initial phases of the Peloponnesian War, and delivering the renowned Funeral Oration towards the conclusion of the initial phase of the Peloponnesian War.