in a triumph Demosthenes called: “that dishonest victory at Chaeronea, fatal to liberty.”From that point on, all of Greece was Philip’s. Philip’s character dictated his immense political and militaristic abilities. Philip was decisive, loyal, courageous and honorable. Philip was quick to act and his strategic brilliance saw Macedon establish itself as the most powerful state in the Greek world. He was a true leader, bravely leading the charge when his army attacked, rather then commanding from safety. His personal qualities and leaderships abilities gave Philip the power to lay the foundations for the mighty empire of Macedon. Philip also had a great respect for the Greeks, and admired their courage in battle. He loved their culture and lifestyle, and respected their place in the Greek world. However, the advance of the Greeks against Macedon and the betrayal by Thebes demonstrated how Philip was ruthless in his revenge of those lacking in honour. Philip was a master of strategy. He conquered through diplomacy just as much as he did through force. Due to this, Philip married the daughters of several leaders in order to gain their co-operation and convince them of his sincerity. He had six or seven different wives, and consequently several children. His wives included Queen Olympias, who was a princess of Epirus, and his main wife. He also married the daughter of one of his generals. He had several children including a son to Olympias and a later son to his general’s daughter. He was a loving father, and had his son, Alexander the Great, tutored by non-other than Aristotle, and taught him the art of warfare by taking Alexander to battle with him. Through this, Alexander gained his father’s expertise, and was able to continue with Philip’s plans after his death. Philip died at the hands of a young assassin in the year 336BC. There are many theories as to his motives, however no one may ever ...
