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  1. #1
    COYATOYPIKC Senior Member Flatout Minigame Champion Arjos's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Quote Originally Posted by Brennus View Post
    just don't become too excessive
    You say that and I kept on thinking it, but I just couldn't decide what to cut lol
    I'll let the team make that decision XD

    Mysia submitted, let me recharge my batteries and I'll start working on Lydia ^^

    Edit: As per JMRC's request, I'm posting Mysia, so the EBII team's historians can review it. As a note, there's a reassessment of Eumenes I's reign (based on "Attalid Asia Minor: Money, International Relations, and the State"), let me know whether you are going to accept or decline it. If the latter I'll rewrite it. Overall, it badly needs to be reduced :P

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Province: Mysia

    Traveller's Log

    Heading ashore, the traveller finds himself in epic land, of which Homeros sang about. In the vicinity is Mount Ide, so named by the Teukroi of Krete, in search of a new home. So rich and fertile, even the Dodekatheon (Twelve Olympians) took many-fountained Ide, mother of wild beasts, as their residence, watching over the deeds of men. The region north of the River Hermos and west of the River Rhyndakos, today is called Mysia. Inhabited by many people, both in the present and in the past, it has been divided into five regions: Megale Mysia, Mikra Mysia, Troas, Aiolis and Teuthrania. Starting in Troas, where the main port for Mysia is found. It was renamed, by Basileus Lysimachos of Thraikia, as Alexandreia Troas. Straight to the south, overlooking Cape Lekton, the westernmost point of Asia, is Hamaxitos. A polis famous for the temple of Apollon Smintheos and the nearby salt pans. Little further inland, there is the polis of Skepsis, where Neleus has bequeathed his scholarches' library (Aristoteles and Theophrastos). To the south on the coast, live the Aioleis and the Peleges. Where Assos is located, a naturally strong and well-fortified polis, famous for its excellent wheat. It used to be a possession of the Tyrant Hermias, a pupil of Platon, who inviting philosophers to join him, brought much prosperity. Continuing eastward, as the adramyttene gulf becomes apparent, lays its namesake polis of Adramyttion. The latter is called the Lydian Gate, for the Lydoi are said to have founded it, but today it belongs to the Mysoi. Striking South, in what can now be called Aiolis, crossing the Kaikos river there is the seaport of Elaia. Which extends its influence across the Hydra and Harmatos Promontories, in what has come to be known as the elaitic gulf. Recently being used by Philetairos of Pergamon, as his link to the Aigaion Pelagos (Aegean Sea). But the largest polis in the area is Kyme, becoming metropolis (mother city) for the rest of the cities, about thirty in number, of which not a few have disappeared. At the same time, incredibly, Kyme hasn't exacted harbour taxes on any ship making port for some three hundred years, becoming something of a mockery for the nearby locals. The inhabitans got the reputation, therefore, of being a people who learnt late that they were living in a city by the sea. Following the coast westward, stands Phokaia, a Ionian polis, founded on land bought from Kyme. It marks the end of Aiolis, for now following the River Hermos inland stands Teuthrania, the Mysian Kingdom's core of the Age of Heroes. To the East Mount Temnon splits Mysia in half and it forms the boundary with Lydia and Phrygia. While to the North is Megale Mysia, with its capital Pergamon. Although part of the Arche Seleukeia, this polis has enjoyed substantial autonomy and is steadily growing in influence. Thanks to its formidable defensive position, since the time of Antigonos Monophthalmos, it became the seat of substantial treasuries. Outside of it can be found an Asklepieion, where one can bathe in its springs and receive the god's wisdom about how to heal his afflictions. Locals are even starting to call this land Mysia Pergamene. To the North-East, passing marshes and forests, in what is now Mikra Mysia, the country opens again revealing Lake Apolloniatis, with abundant fish, but most of all Mount Olympos. Overlooking trade routes to the neighbouring regions, unfortunately it is often an haven for robbers. Turning westward in sight of the Propontis Sea, stands the formidable island-polis of Kyzikos, commercially indispensable, it is becoming ever closer to Pergamon. This because Philetairos offered, much needed, assistance against the invading Galatai. Fording the Aisepos and Grenikos Rivers, the latter of Alexandros Megas' fame, the traveller is back in Troas. This country possesses highly praised vineyards, which are the cause of much strife between the poleis of Priapos and Parion, arbitrated obviously by Pergamon. Far more important, due to their control of the Hellespontos, are the poleis of Lampsakos and Abydos. These were garrisoned by seleukid order, again Pergamon took the opportunity for expanding its grip over Mysia. Moving on southwards Ilion can be found, it used to be a mere village, but Alexandros Megas, who visited its temple of Athena, rewarded it the status of polis, exempted it from tribute and ordered its buildings to be improved.

    Geography

    Mysia for the greater part is a mountainous country, with many rivers, though most of them are small and not navigable. Thus it holds a large supply of water, which helps to mitigate its humid and hot summers. In contrast the Aeolian Coast is much drier, but both areas experience wet and snowy winters. Overall its soil was praised as the finest and richest of Asia, being well stocked with cattle and plains appropriate for pasturage. The interior, in the North-East, is studded by many lakes and confluent rivers. Throughout history, these have changed courses or tributaries have become the main stem, shaping a new image of the region. This has made it difficult for historians, ancient and modern alike, to precisely pinpoint locations. Ida is particular in itself, with its gentler slopes it is proper to consider it a region, instead of a single mountain. Covering an area from Cape Baba (ancient Lekton), to Aphnitis (a swamp or lake, of uncertain exact location) in the lake district. Etymologically, Mysia, is thought to derive from the Lydian word for beech (mysos), which is common in the region. This has been linked to the "maesia silva", a forest belonging to Etruscan Veii. The mountains, forests and waters are home to a myriad of animals. From the Gediz (ancient Hermos) Delta towards the interior live migratory or indigenous birds like Dalmatian pelicans, owls, heron, nightingales, ducks and flamingos. The Sea of Marmara had several oyster beds, excellent were those of Kyzikos. According to Gaivs Plinivs Secvndvs (Pliny the Elder), these were larger, fresher and tastier. Of note, historically speaking, are also edible dormice and mice, these according to the Teucrian Myth, overran the settlers' camp. Fulfilling the oracle's words to build "where the earth-born should attack them".

    The People, Society and Government

    The Mysoi (Mysians), according to Xenophon, dwelled in "many prosperous and substantial towns". Recorded to have partecipated at Marathon wearing "on their heads their native helmets, carrying small shields and javelins hardened by fire."; highly independent (even though, they still participated in a regular tribute of 500 talents), they sometimes raided in Persian land, prompting a military response by Farnavaz (Pharnabazus), employing "magnificently equipped" Greek mercenaries. The image that has come down to us, is one of proud people, respecting strength, naturally providing military manpower to the greater powers of Mikra Asia. They don't appear to have possessed any large central capital/city, but instead were dispersed in several settlements, tending their livestock and crops. A dedication to Eumenes II and his family, by a "Hegemon of the Mysians" seems to indicate a leading figure, holding military power. However such authority, only extended over the corresponding tribe. Typical of the Mysoi was a flute, particularly apt for sorrowful tunes, used at funerals. They employed music and dancing to accompany ceremonies and feasts. Xenophon records that "a Mysian came in carrying a light shield in each hand, and at one moment in his dance he would go through a pantomime as though two men were arrayed against him, again he would use his shields as though against one antagonist, and again he would whirl and throw somersaults while holding the shields in his hands, so that the spectacle was a fine one.".

    The Aioleis (Aeolians) migrated eastward, during the Bronze Age collapse, from Thessalia. They then heavily settled the island of Lebsos, which became a metropolis for new colonies in Asia and even Aigyptos. Originally governed by kings, in the 7th century BCE, many were replaced by oligarchies and tyrants. Concerned mainly with farming, twelve of the most important colonies united in a league (Dodekapolis), competing against the Ionian poleis. Unfortunately they couldn't withstand the expanding powers from the east, during the subsequent centuries and ever since have provided naval bases and experties.

    The Dardanoi (Dardanians) represent Troas' inhabitants. These people were the synthesis of Balkan-Danubian Bronze Age people, Hittito-Luwian speakers and all the newcomers post-Bronze Age collapse (Leleges, Pelasgoi and the Phrygian-Mysian migrants). They stood, literally, at the crossroads of East and West. Constantly dealing with passing armies and incoming conquerors, these people developed their own local loyalties and so recognized themselves by their cities, legends and myths. A somewhat widespread phenomenon, was the worship of Priapos, fertility god and protector of livestock, fruits and mercantile activity. For these were the activities of the area, which assumed the role of an economic hub with commercial harbours, storage facilities, processing for raw materials and markets.
    Last edited by Arjos; 07-30-2013 at 16:39.

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    COYATOYPIKC Senior Member Flatout Minigame Champion Arjos's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Here's the rest XD

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    History

    The late 9th century BCE Neo-Hittite reliefs at Kargamiš, could be the earliest record for Mysia. The regent Yariri boasts how his renown reached, among other places, the land of the "Musai". Thus modern historians have linked the Mysoi to the "Muški/Moschoi", who invaded the Hittite region of Wiluša (the north-western portion of Anatolia), three hundred years prior the relief. These tribes served as warbands/mercenaries as far as the Caucasus. Assyrian records mention five kings, so at this time, much like for several centuries to come, Mysia was composed by tribes, under their respective chiefs, forming coalitions or joining larger forces.

    In the 8th century BCE Phrygian kingship developed and it held sway over the Mysoi. By the 7th century BCE, however Mysia was under Lydian supremacy and this condition continued until 546 BCE, when Kūruš of Pârsa (Cyrus the Great) conquered the region. He then left the famed Lydian treasury in the hands of Paktyes, who revolted and sought assistance at Kyme, where the Aioleis were growing weary of the Persian expansion. They went as far as seeking aid from Sparta, but nothing came of it and were defeated. Thus the people of Mysia recognized Persian suzerainty. Later in 497 BCE satrapal forces, largerly composed by Mysoi and Lydoi, were engaged against revolting Aioleis and Iones. In 480 BCE Khšayāršā of Pârsa (Xerxes I)'s invading army marched through Mysia, reaching Abydos where it crossed the Hellespontos over pontoon bridges.

    During the Pentekontaetia (the period of fify years), the coasts of Mysia joined Athenai in the Koinon Delion (Delian League), which quickly became more of an Arche (empire). This led to animosity and in 411 BCE, Abydos and Lampsakos were easily inspired to side with Sparta by Derkylidas, the whole of Troas followed suit. Thus the vital grain supply from the Pontos Euxeinos (Black Sea) was in deep peril. All Athenai could do, pressed on many fronts, was mounting punitive raids. Claiming slaves and portable booty from Lampsakos (which lacked strong walls at the time) and exorting a large ransom from Kyzikos, to spare it a similar fate. However these tactics weren't enough and Athenai assembled a fleet, defeating in 410 BCE a Peloponnesian force in the waters of Abydos. Pressing on, the allied Athenian army, under Thrasyboulos, won an hard-fought battle at the shores west of Kyzikos. This instability caused the Mysoi to assert their independence and started raiding indiscriminately Persian estates. Prompting Dārayavahuš of Pârsa (Darius II), to send his son Kūruš (Cyrus the Younger) against them. Allowing the latter in 401 BCE to hire mercenaries, Xenophon and Oi Myroi (the Ten Thousand) among them. Later the Archagetes Agesilaos of Sparta (Agesilaus II) in 395 BCE, invaded Mysia to compel the Mysoi to join his army. Ravaging as far as Mount Olympos, each side ambushed the other until a truce was reached, to recover the corpses of the fallen. However the Mysoi weren't impressed enough and Agesilaos took revenge against Mysian communities on his way back.

    In 366 BCE Yervand of Hayasdan rose up against Artakhšaça of Pârsa (Artaxerxes II) and was joined by an alliance of other communities. However he betrayed them right away, in exchange of Mysia. Building something of a private kingdom. Leaderless the rebellion failed, but in 356 BCE the new Khšāyathiya Khšāyathiyānām (King of Kings), of the same name, ordered the disbandment of private armies, causing yet another rebellion. Yervand, by this time minting gold coins at Pergamon in his own image, allied himself with Athenai and was ready to make his bid for power. Yet this time, outmanouvered at his own game, was confronted by a coalition of Pârsa, Thebai and perhaps Makedonia. So he decided to yield, being allowed to keep his estates in Mysia, with the exception of Pergamon.

    336 BCE saw the arrival of Macedonian forces under Parmenion, setting up at Abydos, they raided Persian assets and collected troops among Hellenes in the Mysian coasts. For the next couple of years, Memnon of Rhodos engaged the Makedones in a clever campaign of maneuver, catching isolated detachments, forcing Parmenion to fallback to Abydos. His strategy, however, wasn't followed any longer and in 334 BCE, Alexandros of Makedonia (Alexander III) secured Mysia at the River Grenikos. During the turmoil of the Diadochoi, in 322 BCE Krateros and 6.000 Macedonian veterans marched through Mysia, to cross over the Hellespontos. Athenai, being in open rebellion, had sent a fleet to secure her all-important grain supply. Once again near Abydos a battle was joined and Krateros was free to complete his trek. Later in 318 BCE ambitious Antigonos Monophthalmos of Phrygia seized the Propontis (Sea of Marmara) coast and gradually courted the Aioleis and poleis of the Hellespontos to ally with him. However with the battle of Ipsos (301 BCE), the Antigonid cause seemed helpless in Mikra Asia and Lysimachos of Thraikia happily obliged to fill that power vacuum, taking care of few staunch garrisons. He proved to be an effective ruler, securing Mysia by vigorous programs of city foundation or refoundation, military colonization and uniting Hellenic poleis in leagues, under governors of his choosing. One such figure was Philetairos, put in charge of Pergamon and its treasury of 9.000 silver talents. After the execution of Agathlokes (son and heir of Lysimachos), who had started to assert his succession, around 283 BCE, a number of officers, including Philetairos, who had collaborated with Agathokles formed a conspiracy to defect in favour of Seleukos Nikator. It's possible that Philetairos offered to fund Seleukos' enterprises, drawing from the Pergamese treasury, in exchange of autonomy. The Asian Basileus, more interested in seizing Thraikia and Makedonia, accepted and thought he would deal with the ambitious eunuch on his way back. Fortunately for Philetairos, in 281 BCE Ptolemaios Keraunos assassinated Seleukos and Pergamon hastily recovered the latter's corpse. Properly cremated, it was sent to his heir Antiochos, who had finally reached Mikra Asia to deal with insurgents. This gesture convinced the Basileus of Philetairos' loyalty and allowed him to keep his autonomy.

    From then on Philetairos initiated his policy of euergesia (benefaction). For example, he gifted 600 shields to Kyme, receiving city honours, subtly bestowed during seleukid festivals. It is clear that the communities of Mysia seeked protection against the Galatai raiders and it is in this context that Philetairos established military colonies. These would form new ethnicities of mixed origins like the Mysomakedones and Mysotymoleitai, recording Mysian and Macedonian veterans forming new communities at the borders of Mysia. These liberties and the recent re-dating of early Pergamene coinage (bearing Philetairos image and now thought to be struck during his reign), suggest the adoption by Antiochos I of Achaemenid practices, granting such rights to local dynasts.

    In 263 BCE Eumenes I succeeded to power and faced a mercenary revolt (likely the military settlers), denoting some difficulties. These probably included a renewal of Galatian raids, which eventually forced Eumenes I to end them with a tribute. In the past it was thought, that Eumenes tried a breakaway from Seleukid authority, but this has come into question. First of all such a conflict stands solely on Phylarchos. An historical writer criticized by his contemporaries for falsifying and re-writing events to shock his audience. Plus during Eumenes I's reign, a Seleukid dating formula continued to be employed and Seleukid minting activity in Aiolis was increased. There's also an arbitration by Seleukos Kallinikos granting the Aeolian polis of Pitane to Eumenes I. All these activities following twenty years, after an alleged victorious engagement against Antiochos I, make the latter a distortion of events.

    In 237 BCE Attalos I, the Pergamene successor, won a battle in the Kaikos valley against Antiochos Hierax and his allied Galatai. This prompted Attalos I to assume the diadem. Hierax was a pretender, who had just defeated Kallinikos and established his own kingdom. Thus Attalos' actions were legitimized, for he owed no allegiance to the pretender. Faced with inefficient Seleukid control in Mikra Asia, which could not preserve stability, Attalos I made the choice to assume full authority. In 225 BCE, Seleukos Keraunos launched a campaign against Attalos I, but this does not imply that the latter's loyalty towards the legitimate Seleukid line and his resistance against usurpers, was unappreciated. What worried the Basileus of Asia, was the Pergamene influence spreading as far as the Tauros. However he was assassinated by his own troops and his relative Achaios vowed to continue his mission. The latter enjoyed great success, shutting Attalos inside Pergamon's walls, and realized that the diadem of Asia was better than loyalty. Once again Attalos found himself treading on a fine line between legitimacy and overstepping his bounds. In 216 BCE an agreement with Antiochos III was reached, for a joint campaign against Achaios: Pergamon was finally recognized as independent, but with rights only over Mysia. Attalos now pursued a cordial coexistence with Seleukid interests, concentrating on Makedonia and dedicating statues to, the now self-styled Basileus Megas (Great King) Antiochos III and Zeuxis.

    In 193 BCE, Attalos' successor, Eumenes II however realized that Pergamon could not expand without conflict with the Seleukidai. No matter how much independent he was, Seleukid superiority in Mikra Asia was apparent, where Antiochos Megas had even asserted dominance of the Troas. Eumenes II then refused to marry Antiochos Megas' daughter and furthered his relations with Roma, allies since Attalos' reign. In the ensuing war the Pergamese basileus organized the crossing of the Hellespontos for the Roman legiones. Withstanding a siege on Pergamon, Eumenes II was eventually victorious and his influence greatly extended. These larger borders of 187 BCE, brought the following conflicts away from Mysia, allowing Eumenes II to introduce a new monetary policy and embark on a lavish building programme, transforming Pergamon into one of the showpieces of the Hellenistic world. He extended the sanctuary of Athena Nikephoros, refounding the Nikephoria games, which reached panhellenic status. He also enlarged the Pergamon library, founded by his father Attalos I, to be second only to that of Alexandreia. Lastly he began the construction of the Great Altar, themed after the Gigantomachia, perhaps as a parallel to the Attalid struggle against the Galatai.

    His brother Attalos II, regent for Eumenes II's son, had continued this envisaged relationship of equals between Pergamon and Roma, but it became clear it was turning into a one-way dependency on the SPQR's goodwill. Therefore Attalos II mainly focused on holding the kingdom together and engaged in political intrigue, for example setting up, in 157 BCE, Alexandros Balas as Basileus of Seleukid Syria.

    In 138 BCE, after the death of his regent, Attalos III ascended to the throne. He seems to have had scholarly pursuits in botany and pharmacology, but was not much interested in governing. Still epigraphic evidence speaks of cultic benefactions and at least one military success. However his eccentricity forged, in posterity, an image of cruelty and misgovernment. But the records are vague and without foundation (the Roman Senatvs formally decreed all of Attalos III's acts valid), perhaps due to slander for a Basileus, who did not behave "kingly". In 133 BCE, dying childless, Attalos III bequeathed his possessions to "the Roman peole".

    A certain Aristonikos, of unknown origins, saw his chance for power and declared himself a bastard brother, assuming the diadem as Eumenes III. He faced fierce opposition from the poleis; while rulers from Bithynia, Pontos, Kappadokia and Paphlagonia already aimed at carving up the Pergamese kingdom. Eumenes III lacked support, only Phokaia joined him spontaneously, and suffered setbacks, so he resorted to freeing slaves, advocating radical changes for the suppressed rural populace. Defeated and captured in 129 BCE, he was paraded publicly in Roma and the Senatvs, judging Asia too unstable, assumed responsibility, forcing a settlement among the powers of the region.

    The Romani came to describe Pergamon's possessions as the "spoils of Asia", something all too clear from the overtaxation, which had left the people of Mysia seething over the collectors' arrogance and greed. So widespread was this sentiment, that in 89 BCE Mithradates VI of Pontos, having captured Manivs Aqvillivs, had him tied backwards on a donkey, paraded through towns until Pergamon and there poured molten gold down his throat. Still this wasn't enough, with the passing of winter, Mithradates VI now exploited this hatred for his gains, by sending letters to every poleis and governors instructing them to execute every single Romanvs living in Mikra Asia. By way of encouragement he offered a share in the property of the victims, freedom for every slave killing his Roman master and halving of debts. This unleashed a massacre of 80.000 people. At Adramyttion the killers drowned indiscriminately men, women and children. At Pergamon archers shot foreigners down, as these clung to the statues of the gods, seeking sanctuary in temples. Lastly, always per order of Mithradates VI, the corpses were thrown outside and left unburied.

    With the fortunes of war swinging towards the Roman side in 85 BCE, many in Mysia and Mikra Asia began to ask themselves what Roma would do to the region that had committed such atrocities and their loyalty to the Pontic cause started to waver. Mithradates VI certainly did not help the situation, when he deceived the Galatian aristocracy to join their hostage families at a banquet in Pergamon, promising a conciliation and massacrated them, except for three nobles, who managed to escape. At this point poleis simply refused entrance to Pontic troops. Mithradates answered by granting citizenship for resident aliens, freeing slaves and cancellation of debts; effectively establishing stasis (civic strife) in every poleis. This prompted several high-ranking Pergamenes courtiers and officials to form conspiracies to overthrow the Pontic basileus. They were, however, betrayed and tortured, revealing their fellow plotters, causing Mithradates to collect more information throughout other major poleis, eventually purging 1.600 people. This climate offered Gaivs Flavivs Fimbria, a political enemy of Svlla, who was left to his own devices, too good an opportunity to take over the riches of Mysia and its royal court. Quickly disposing of half-trained levies at the River Rhyndakos, Fimbria reached Pergamon and was informed that Mithradates had fled to Pitane in Aiolis, attempting a naval escape. At the harbour Mithradates was just ultimating the preparations, when both Fimbria and Lvcivs Licinivs Lvcvllvs, Svlla's subordinate, arrived one by land and the latter by sea. Here the genius of the Pontic basileus saved his skin once more, by offering to submit to the "official" Roman army (Fimbria's) he was free to sail away unopposed, since the domestic support for ending the war against Mithradates would've doomed Svlla. Having made clear how Mithradates and Svlla needed eachother at this stage, they met at Ilion and, in a show of realpolitik, brought an end to the First Mithridatic War.

    Fimbria and his men, as frustrated as it can be imagined they were, raced to the Troas, but found the meeting over and the populace, informed him, had entrusted itself to Svlla. The Roman general responded that the Troiani were already friends of the SPQR, so there was no reason to not let him enter. With the gates open, pillage and slaughter followed, what was not worth stealing was burned and "not a house, not a temple, not a statue was left standing". This forced, in 84 BCE, Svlla to cross once again, setting up a circumvallation. A desperate Fimbria, deserted by his men, took his own life. Woes for Mysia and Mikra Asia were not over, Svlla declared that Roma was owed 20.000 talents in reparations and back taxes; he also ordered his soldiers to be quartered by the locals, each family providing meals, an allowance and clothing to their "guests". If this was not enough, in 73 BCE Mithradates VI, who mustered another large army, descended into Mysia across the coast of the Propontis (Sea of Marmara). All major poleis either fell or opened their gates, except for Kyzikos. Besieging it turned out to be a logistical nightmare for Mithradates. Set backs, storms, dysentery, frozen winter cold and a Roman counter siege annihilated the Pontic army, as it tried to evacuate.

    In 48 BCE Pvblivs Servilivs Vatia Isavricvs, as the governor of Asia, declared Pergamon a democracy, reducing the amount of tribute owed to Roma and shifted tax collection to local aristocrats. The economy of the Mysian poleis slowly started to recover after a century of merciless exploitation. While the Mysian tribes of the interior, although taking part in the conflicts, managed to preserve their communities. It's recorded, for example, that Gaivs Jvlivs Caesar Octavianvs (Octavian) in 31 BCE named Kleon of the Abrettenoi, for switching sides during the civil war against Marcvs Antonivs, the priesthood of Komana. This Kleon must've been a priest-chief figure, because Strabon states he also was priest of Zeus Abrettenos. With his enhanced authority, Kleon expanded and refounded his hometown into Juliopolis. Lastly in 29 BCE Pergamon established games and a cult in honour of Roma and Octavianvs, this was to evolve, in the next century, into the practice of Neokoroi (temple-wardens) and the cult of the living emperor.

    Strategy

    The incredible position, controlling the Hellespontos, gold mines, availability of war-like tribes ready to join the fighting force and defensible geography make Mysia the archetype seat of power. Any ruler, with imperial designs, will find it vital.
    Last edited by Arjos; 07-29-2013 at 19:06.

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  3. #3
    EBII Bricklayer Member V.T. Marvin's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Wow! It is HUUUGE! But really a terrific job, Arjos! Much appreciated!

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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team


    *applause*

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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Edit
    Last edited by I Am Herenow; 05-22-2017 at 20:12.

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    COYATOYPIKC Senior Member Flatout Minigame Champion Arjos's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Thanks, will edit everything tomorrow :)
    Much appreciated the general points, really needed them before starting another!

    Quote Originally Posted by I Am Herenow View Post
    To maintain consistency across the mod's descriptions we have decided to use British spelling throughout.
    Although @I Am Herenow could you explain this better? I've re-read Brennus' Combrogon and there are few native names. What criteria should I follow?

    Quote Originally Posted by I Am Herenow View Post
    I would advise against writing in the first person: I think it sounds cheesy. ... For similar reasons do not mention or reference "the reader"/"my readers"/... in a passage.
    BTW I was trying to make a pseudo-historian account (with a 3rd century point of view), giving the traveller a voice. Just an idea :P

    Quote Originally Posted by I Am Herenow View Post
    For instance, what do you mean by "better" here? And why is it better? Your overall point is unclear to me.
    When writing that, I was considering whether it would've been confusing or not to introduce sub-regional names. In the end it seemed better, instead of having a massive description dotted with landmarks, to have those sub-units. I also hoped, it conveyed the heterogeneity of Mysia...
    Last edited by Arjos; 05-06-2013 at 06:29.

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    Uergobretos Senior Member Brennus's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    One finally point is the traveller's log, for the sake of consistency, should be written in the third person.



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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Edit
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    COYATOYPIKC Senior Member Flatout Minigame Champion Arjos's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Both parts should be fixed now, I restructured most phrases for a smoother read :P

    As for the British vs US conventions, I probably don't know them all and might've missed some...

  10. #10

    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Hello, I've never participated in any discussions here although I lurk often in these forums. Since you asked for the public's help I think I could make a meaningful contribution in this sector. I'm not a professional historian but I have a keen interest in history.
    So, to get to the point, is Aitolia taken? If not, I'd be glad to write a description for the province.
    Last edited by spade; 05-06-2013 at 20:52.
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  11. #11
    Uergobretos Senior Member Brennus's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Feel free to give it a shot.



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  12. #12

    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Edit
    Last edited by I Am Herenow; 07-08-2017 at 12:41.

  13. #13
    COYATOYPIKC Senior Member Flatout Minigame Champion Arjos's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Answering the points:

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Quote Originally Posted by I Am Herenow
    Neleus Who?
    The Aristotelian disciple, who inherited the library and then bequeathed it.

    Confusing location of bracketed clause: do you mean to say that Aristotle and Theophrastos were the scholarches in question?
    Yup.

    I do not understand what this last clause means.
    Saying that Teuthrania was the centre of the homeric Mysian kingdom.

    'Monophthalmos'?, You need to delete one of the two previous commas, depending on what you are trying to say: has it had a formidable defensive position since Monopht(h)almos, or has it been the seat of treasuries since then?
    Argh, yes I missed the "h" twice. I meant it has been a treasury since then.

    To whom?
    Kyzikos.

    Oddly phrased: do you mean that the Seleukids ordered that the poleis be garrisoned (by whomever), or that they themselves garrisoned the poleis?
    It was garrisoned by Pergamon at its own expenses, technically Seleukid, in the name of Antiochos. The order might've been Nikator's and recognized after his death.

    What does this mean?
    Mount Ida, omitting "Mount" might've made it more confusing, is particular for not really being a mountain per se, but a wide geographical area. Massif could describe it better.

    'The settlers' – presumably?
    Don't really follow this. The camp set up by the teucrian settlers. I've used a saxon genitive, if there's the need for a capitalized "T" I don't know lol

    Whom?
    Darius I/the Persians. Speaking of Marathon, I thought it was clear it was during the Achaemenid period.

    Presumably?
    Xenophon records that particular incident. I'd feel it is known and not presumed.

    What does this clause mean?
    That the Mysoi think highly of themselves and would follow only who they respect and/or fear. Not because of legitimacy.

    'Them with' – presumably?
    Thank you, yes "with" :)


    Random splitting it is :P

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 


    History

    The late 9th century BCE Neo-Hittite reliefs at Kargamiš, could be the earliest record for Mysia. The regent Yariri boasts how his renown reached, among other places, the land of the "Musai". Thus modern historians have linked the Mysoi to the "Muški/Moschoi", who invaded the Hittite region of Wiluša (the north-western portion of Anatolia), three hundred years prior the relief. These tribes served as warbands/mercenaries as far as the Caucasus. Assyrian records mention five kings, so at this time, much like for several centuries to come, Mysia was composed by tribes, under their respective chiefs, forming coalitions or joining larger forces.

    In the 8th century BCE Phrygian kingship developed and it held sway over the Mysoi. By the 7th century BCE, however Mysia was under Lydian supremacy and this condition continued until 546 BCE, when Kūruš of Pârsa (Cyrus the Great) conquered the region. He then left the famed Lydian treasury in the hands of Paktyes, who revolted and sought assistance at Kyme, where the Aioleis were growing weary of the Persian expansion. They went as far as seeking aid from Sparta, but nothing came of it and were defeated. Thus the people of Mysia recognized Persian suzerainty. Later in 497 BCE satrapal forces, largerly composed by Mysoi and Lydoi, were engaged against revolting Aioleis and Iones. In 480 BCE Khšayāršā of Pârsa (Xerxes I)'s invading army marched through Mysia, reaching Abydos where it crossed the Hellespontos over pontoon bridges.

    During the Pentekontaetia (the period of fify years), the coasts of Mysia joined Athenai in the Koinon Delion (Delian League), which quickly became more of an Arche (empire). This led to animosity and in 411 BCE, Abydos and Lampsakos were easily inspired to side with Sparta by Derkylidas, the whole of Troas followed suit. Thus the vital grain supply from the Pontos Euxeinos (Black Sea) was in deep peril. All Athenai could do, pressed on many fronts, was mounting punitive raids. Claiming slaves and portable booty from Lampsakos (which lacked strong walls at the time) and exorting a large ransom from Kyzikos, to spare it a similar fate. However these tactics weren't enough and Athenai assembled a fleet, defeating in 410 BCE a Peloponnesian force in the waters of Abydos. Pressing on, the allied Athenian army, under Thrasyboulos, won an hard-fought battle at the shores west of Kyzikos. This instability caused the Mysoi to assert their independence and started raiding indiscriminately Persian estates. Prompting Dārayavahuš of Pârsa (Darius II), to send his son Kūruš (Cyrus the Younger) against them. Allowing the latter in 401 BCE to hire mercenaries, Xenophon and Oi Myroi (the Ten Thousand) among them. Later the Archagetes Agesilaos of Sparta (Agesilaus II) in 395 BCE, invaded Mysia to compel the Mysoi to join his army. Ravaging as far as Mount Olympos, each side ambushed the other until a truce was reached, to recover the corpses of the fallen. However the Mysoi weren't impressed enough and Agesilaos took revenge against Mysian communities on his way back.

    In 366 BCE Yervand of Hayasdan rose up against Artakhšaça of Pârsa (Artaxerxes II) and was joined by an alliance of other communities. However he betrayed them right away, in exchange of Mysia. Building something of a private kingdom. Leaderless the rebellion failed, but in 356 BCE the new Khšāyathiya Khšāyathiyānām (King of Kings), of the same name, ordered the disbandment of private armies, causing yet another rebellion. Yervand, by this time minting gold coins at Pergamon in his own image, allied himself with Athenai and was ready to make his bid for power. Yet this time, outmanouvered at his own game, was confronted by a coalition of Pârsa, Thebai and perhaps Makedonia. So he decided to yield, being allowed to keep his estates in Mysia, with the exception of Pergamon.

    336 BCE saw the arrival of Macedonian forces under Parmenion, setting up at Abydos, they raided Persian assets and collected troops among Hellenes in the Mysian coasts. For the next couple of years, Memnon of Rhodos engaged the Makedones in a clever campaign of maneuver, catching isolated detachments, forcing Parmenion to fallback to Abydos. His strategy, however, wasn't followed any longer and in 334 BCE, Alexandros of Makedonia (Alexander III) secured Mysia at the River Grenikos. During the turmoil of the Diadochoi, in 322 BCE Krateros and 6.000 Macedonian veterans marched through Mysia, to cross over the Hellespontos. Athenai, being in open rebellion, had sent a fleet to secure her all-important grain supply. Once again near Abydos a battle was joined and Krateros was free to complete his trek. Later in 318 BCE ambitious Antigonos Monophthalmos of Phrygia seized the Propontis (Sea of Marmara) coast and gradually courted the Aioleis and poleis of the Hellespontos to ally with him. However with the battle of Ipsos (301 BCE), the Antigonid cause seemed helpless in Mikra Asia and Lysimachos of Thraikia happily obliged to fill that power vacuum, taking care of few staunch garrisons. He proved to be an effective ruler, securing Mysia by vigorous programs of city foundation or refoundation, military colonization and uniting Hellenic poleis in leagues, under governors of his choosing. One such figure was Philetairos, put in charge of Pergamon and its treasury of 9.000 silver talents. After the execution of Agathlokes (son and heir of Lysimachos), under false accusations in 283 BCE, a number of officers, including Philetairos, formed a conspiracy to defect in favour of Seleukos Nikator. It's possible that Philetairos offered to fund Seleukos' enterprises, drawing from the Pergamese treasury, in exchange of autonomy. The Asian Basileus, more interested in seizing Thraikia and Makedonia, accepted and thought he would deal with the ambitious eunuch on his way back. Fortunately for Philetairos, in 281 BCE Ptolemaios Keraunos assassinated Seleukos and Pergamon hastily recovered the latter's corpse. Properly cremated, it was sent to his heir Antiochos, who had finally reached Mikra Asia to deal with insurgents. This gesture convinced the Basileus of Philetairos' loyalty and allowed him to keep his autonomy.

    From then on Philetairos initiated his policy of euergesia (benefaction). For example, he gifted 600 shields to Kyme, receiving city honours, subtly bestowed during seleukid festivals. It is clear that the communities of Mysia seeked protection against the Galatai raiders and it is in this context that Philetairos established military colonies. These would form new ethnicities of mixed origins like the Mysomakedones and Mysotymoleitai, recording Mysian and Macedonian veterans forming new communities at the borders of Mysia. These liberties and the recent re-dating of early Pergamene coinage (bearing Philetairos image and now thought to be struck during his reign), suggest the adoption by Antiochos I of Achaemenid practices, granting such rights to local dynasts.

    In 263 BCE Eumenes I succeeded to power and faced a mercenary revolt (likely the military settlers), denoting some difficulties. These probably included a renewal of Galatian raids, which eventually forced Eumenes I to end them with a tribute. In the past it was thought, that Eumenes tried a breakaway from Seleukid authority, but this has come into question. First of all such a conflict stands solely on Phylarchos. An historical writer criticized by his contemporaries for falsifying and re-writing events to shock his audience. Plus during Eumenes I's reign, a Seleukid dating formula continued to be employed and Seleukid minting activity in Aiolis was increased. There's also an arbitration by Seleukos Kallinikos granting the Aeolian polis of Pitane to Eumenes I. All these activities following twenty years, after an alleged victorious engagement against Antiochos I, make the latter a distortion of events.

    In 237 BCE Attalos I, the Pergamene successor, won a battle in the Kaikos valley against Antiochos Hierax and his allied Galatai. This prompted Attalos I to assume the diadem. Hierax was a pretender, who had just defeated Kallinikos and established his own kingdom. Thus Attalos' actions were legitimized, for he owed no allegiance to the pretender. Faced with inefficient Seleukid control in Mikra Asia, which could not preserve stability, Attalos I made the choice to assume full authority. In 225 BCE, Seleukos Keraunos launched a campaign against Attalos I, but this does not imply that the latter's loyalty towards the legitimate Seleukid line and his resistance against usurpers, was unappreciated. What worried the Basileus of Asia, was the Pergamene influence spreading as far as the Tauros. However he was assassinated by his own troops and his relative Achaios vowed to continue his mission. The latter enjoyed great success, shutting Attalos inside Pergamon's walls, and realized that the diadem of Asia was better than loyalty. Once again Attalos found himself treading on a fine line between legitimacy and overstepping his bounds. In 216 BCE an agreement with Antiochos III was reached, for a joint campaign against Achaios: Pergamon was finally recognized as independent, but with rights only over Mysia. Attalos now pursued a cordial coexistence with Seleukid interests, concentrating on Makedonia and dedicating statues to, the now self-styled Basileus Megas (Great King) Antiochos III and Zeuxis.

    In 193 BCE, Attalos' successor, Eumenes II however realized that Pergamon could not expand without conflict with the Seleukidai. No matter how much independent he was, Seleukid superiority in Mikra Asia was apparent, where Antiochos Megas had even asserted dominance of the Troas. Eumenes II then refused to marry Antiochos Megas' daughter and furthered his relations with Roma, allies since Attalos' reign. In the ensuing war the Pergamese basileus organized the crossing of the Hellespontos for the Roman legiones. Withstanding a siege on Pergamon, Eumenes II was eventually victorious and his influence greatly extended. These larger borders of 187 BCE, brought the following conflicts away from Mysia, allowing Eumenes II to introduce a new monetary policy and embark on a lavish building programme, transforming Pergamon into one of the showpieces of the Hellenistic world. He extended the sanctuary of Athena Nikephoros, refounding the Nikephoria games, which reached panhellenic status. He also enlarged the Pergamon library, founded by his father Attalos I, to be second only to that of Alexandreia. Lastly he began the construction of the Great Altar, themed after the Gigantomachia, perhaps as a parallel to the Attalid struggle against the Galatai.

    His brother Attalos II, regent for Eumenes II's son, had continued this envisaged relationship of equals between Pergamon and Roma, but it became clear it was turning into a one-way dependency on the SPQR's goodwill. Therefore Attalos II mainly focused on holding the kingdom together and engaged in political intrigue, for example setting up, in 157 BCE, Alexandros Balas as Basileus of Seleukid Syria.

    In 138 BCE, after the death of his regent, Attalos III ascended to the throne. He seems to have had scholarly pursuits in botany and pharmacology, but was not much interested in governing. Still epigraphic evidence speaks of cultic benefactions and at least one military success. However his eccentricity forged, in posterity, an image of cruelty and misgovernment. But the records are vague and without foundation (the Roman Senatvs formally decreed all of Attalos III's acts valid), perhaps due to slander for a Basileus, who did not behave "kingly". In 133 BCE, dying childless, Attalos III bequeathed his possessions to "the Roman peole".

    A certain Aristonikos, of unknown origins, saw his chance for power and declared himself a bastard brother, assuming the diadem as Eumenes III. He faced fierce opposition from the poleis; while rulers from Bithynia, Pontos, Kappadokia and Paphlagonia already aimed at carving up the Pergamese kingdom. Eumenes III lacked support, only Phokaia joined him spontaneously, and suffered setbacks, so he resorted to freeing slaves, advocating radical changes for the suppressed rural populace. Defeated and captured in 129 BCE, he was paraded publicly in Roma and the Senatvs, judging Asia too unstable, assumed responsibility, forcing a settlement among the powers of the region.

    The Romani came to describe Pergamon's possessions as the "spoils of Asia", something all too clear from the overtaxation, which had left the people of Mysia seething over the collectors' arrogance and greed. So widespread was this sentiment, that in 89 BCE Mithradates VI of Pontos, having captured Manivs Aqvillivs, had him tied backwards on a donkey, paraded through towns until Pergamon and there poured molten gold down his throat. Still this wasn't enough, with the passing of winter, Mithradates VI now exploited this hatred for his gains, by sending letters to every poleis and governors instructing them to execute every single Romanvs living in Mikra Asia. By way of encouragement he offered a share in the property of the victims, freedom for every slave killing his Roman master and halving of debts. This unleashed a massacre of 80.000 people. At Adramyttion the killers drowned indiscriminately men, women and children. At Pergamon archers shot foreigners down, as these clung to the statues of the gods, seeking sanctuary in temples. Lastly, always per order of Mithradates VI, the corpses were thrown outside and left unburied.

    With the fortunes of war swinging towards the Roman side in 85 BCE, many in Mysia and Mikra Asia began to ask themselves what Roma would do to the region that had committed such atrocities and their loyalty to the Pontic cause started to waver. Mithradates VI certainly did not help the situation, when he deceived the Galatian aristocracy to join their hostage families at a banquet in Pergamon, promising a conciliation and massacrated them, except for three nobles, who managed to escape. At this point poleis simply refused entrance to Pontic troops. Mithradates answered by granting citizenship for resident aliens, freeing slaves and cancellation of debts; effectively establishing stasis (civic strife) in every poleis. This prompted several high-ranking Pergamenes courtiers and officials to form conspiracies to overthrow the Pontic basileus. They were, however, betrayed and tortured, revealing their fellow plotters, causing Mithradates to collect more information throughout other major poleis, eventually purging 1.600 people. This climate offered Gaivs Flavivs Fimbria, a political enemy of Svlla, who was left to his own devices, too good an opportunity to take over the riches of Mysia and its royal court. Quickly disposing of half-trained levies at the River Rhyndakos, Fimbria reached Pergamon and was informed that Mithradates had fled to Pitane in Aiolis, attempting a naval escape. At the harbour Mithradates was just ultimating the preparations, when both Fimbria and Lvcivs Licinivs Lvcvllvs, Svlla's subordinate, arrived one by land and the latter by sea. Here the genius of the Pontic basileus saved his skin once more, by offering to submit to the "official" Roman army (Fimbria's) he was free to sail away unopposed, since the domestic support for ending the war against Mithradates would've doomed Svlla. Having made clear how Mithradates and Svlla needed eachother at this stage, they met at Ilion and, in a show of realpolitik, brought an end to the First Mithridatic War.

    Fimbria and his men, as frustrated as it can be imagined they were, raced to the Troas, but found the meeting over and the populace, informed him, had entrusted itself to Svlla. The Roman general responded that the Troiani were already friends of the SPQR, so there was no reason to not let him enter. With the gates open, pillage and slaughter followed, what was not worth stealing was burned and "not a house, not a temple, not a statue was left standing". This forced, in 84 BCE, Svlla to cross once again, setting up a circumvallation. A desperate Fimbria, deserted by his men, took his own life. Woes for Mysia and Mikra Asia were not over, Svlla declared that Roma was owed 20.000 talents in reparations and back taxes; he also ordered his soldiers to be quartered by the locals, each family providing meals, an allowance and clothing to their "guests". If this was not enough, in 73 BCE Mithradates VI, who mustered another large army, descended into Mysia across the coast of the Propontis (Sea of Marmara). All major poleis either fell or opened their gates, except for Kyzikos. Besieging it turned out to be a logistical nightmare for Mithradates. Set backs, storms, dysentery, frozen winter cold and a Roman counter siege annihilated the Pontic army, as it tried to evacuate.

    In 48 BCE Pvblivs Servilivs Vatia Isavricvs, as the governor of Asia, declared Pergamon a democracy, reducing the amount of tribute owed to Roma and shifted tax collection to local aristocrats. The economy of the Mysian poleis slowly started to recover after a century of merciless exploitation. While the Mysian tribes of the interior, although taking part in the conflicts, managed to preserve their communities. It's recorded, for example, that Gaivs Jvlivs Caesar Octavianvs (Octavian) in 31 BCE named Kleon of the Abrettenoi, for switching sides during the civil war against Marcvs Antonivs, the priesthood of Komana. This Kleon must've been a priest-chief figure, because Strabon states he also was priest of Zeus Abrettenos. With his enhanced authority, Kleon expanded and refounded his hometown into Juliopolis. Lastly in 29 BCE Pergamon established games and a cult in honour of Roma and Octavianvs, this was to evolve, in the next century, into the practice of Neokoroi (temple-wardens) and the cult of the living emperor.
    Last edited by Arjos; 07-29-2013 at 19:07.

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  14. #14

    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Here's the complete regional description for Aitolia. I reduced some parts but generally due to the loads of historical info available for Hellenic regions, compared to other places, I think it serves its purpose well. Perhaps the descriptions of some events prior to the EB time-frame could be briefer but I will leave that on the team to decide.

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Province: Aitolia



    Traveller’s Log:

    Shall the traveller leave the fertile plain of Boiotia and continue towards the direction of the setting sun, that person should find oneself in the land of Aitolia. Aitolia is home to the Phokaeis, the Ozolai Lokroi, the Aitoloi, the Akarnanes and the Dolopes. Any person travelling from Attike, Rhodos, Sikelia or some other place inhabited by proper Hellenes should be warned. Do not be fooled by the similarity of their language to that of the Spartiates or the Korinthioi. They are semi-barbarous people and although some of them live in small poleis, the majority is not accustomed to the civilised life of the polis preferring instead a life similar to that of the barbarous ethne of the north. It has to be stressed however that although the people of this land live a simple and unassuming life, they are fearsome warriors and hard as the land they inhabit. So, these people have recently shown great potential and perseverance. The inhabitants of Aitolia, together with the Malians of southern Thessalia, have formed the now mighty Aitolikon Koinon which rules this rugged land of high mountains, fabled caves and sacred springs.

    The first region under the Aitolikon Koinon one shall encounter on his travels is that of Phokis. Here, on the slopes of Parnassos mountain the Python guarded the Navel of the Earth until Apollo slew him and established his most sacred precinct, that of Delphoi.

    Leaving Delphoi and continuing west across the plain of Krissa, the traveller will reach the land of Ozolia Lokris also known as Esperia Lokris and its people are members of the Aitolikon Koinon. On the western edge of the plain of Krissa the traveller can visit the main polis of the Ozolai Lokroi which is called Amphissa. Beyond Amphissa lies the imposing Aselenon Oros. Continuing on a western or south-western course, the daring traveller would come upon the mountain range of Korax. It is of great height and similar to Aselenon. At this point, the traveller should reach Naupaktos, the main port of Ozolia Lokris.

    After Ozolia Lokris, the traveller will enter the region of Aitolia proper, home of the Aitoloi who are the founders of the Aitolikon Koinon. Aitolia is divided in two parts. The first is Archaia Aitolia, the original home of the Aitoloi and is bounded by the coast to the south, Acheloos river to the west, Euenos river to the east and Thermon to the north. The second is called Aitolia Epiktetos, which signifies that this part was acquired in a later time by the Aitoloi and is exclusively mountainous. The main polis in Aitolia is Thermon. It is one of the most important meeting places of the Aitolikon Koinon and serves as an administrative and religious centre for Aitolia.

    To the north of Aitolia Epiktetos, there are the mountains inhabited by the Dolopes. They are members of the Aitolikon Koinon and their land is no different to the mountains of Aitolia or Ozolia Lokris.

    To the west of Archaia Aitolia, after crossing the river Acheloos the traveller will find himself in Akarnania. The Akarnanes are reluctant members of the Koinon their relationship with the Aitoloi is uneasy as they inhabit one of the most fertile areas of Aitolia which they have to share with the Aitoloi. The main polis of the Akarnanes is that of Stratos situated inland, on the plain of Acheloos.

    Off the coast of Akarnania are several islands of note. The first is Leukas. Formerly a peninsula and part of Akarnania until the Korinthioi dug a canal on the isthmus thus separating Leukas from the coast. Some fifty stadia off Leukas one can find the islands of Kephallenia and Ithake. Kephallenia is a Tetrapolis and its land is mountainous. Ithake is much smaller but equally rugged. Further south, off the coast of Elis is Zakynthos. It is a wooded island with good soil. All these islands are rightly famous as in the past they belonged to the basileus of Ithake, the cunning Odysseus.


    Geography:

    The province of Aitolia roughly corresponds to the modern regional units of Phocis, Evrytania, Aetolia-Acarnania and most of the Ionian Islands.

    Modern Phocis consists of Ozolia Lokris and a part of ancient Phokis. The region is dominated by Mount Parnassus to the east, Mount Giona [ancient Aselenon] in the centre and the south-eastern slopes of Mount Vardousia [ancient Korax] to the west. The mountains are composed of limestone and are full of deep canyons, high cliffs, caves and sinkholes. Little open ground exists and is in the form of uplands that are best suited for pasture. All three mountains are rich in underground water and forested while their highest reaches boast an alpine climate. The region has little to show in the form of plains. That of Krissa is bounded by Giona to the north, Parnassus to the east and the sea to the south. It has good soil and is well suited to agriculture. The second is the alluvial plain of Naupactos and is similar to that of Krissa. In antiquity one river of note is mentioned; Hylaithos [modern Mornos]. Hylainthos flows south into the Corinthian Gulf close to Naupaktos.

    Ancient Akarnania and Aitolia proper form the modern regional unit of Aetolia-Acarnania. The north, north-east, south-east and west are dominated by mountains composed of limestone. These are covered by forests and ravines that render them almost inaccessible. Generally, they present an image similar to that of the mountains of Phocis. The most important are the Acarnanian Mountains to the west and Mount Panaitoliko to the north-east. The main river here is Acheloos flowing from north and into the sea to the south-west. The second river worthy of note is Euenos and flows to east of Acheloos in a roughly parallel course. The coast between Acheloos and Euenos consists of a fertile alluvial plain bounded to the north by a range of hills known in antiquity as Arakynthos. North of these hills the lakes Trichonis and Hyria can be found. Beyond these lakes the second plain of the region is located. Through it flows the river Acheloos. This plain is rich and fertile as well.

    The land of the Dolopes is part of modern Evrytania. It is dominated by Mount Tymphrestos, a southern extension of the Pindus mountain range. It is heavily forested and full of ravines making it difficult to traverse. This is where the springs of Sperchios River are located.

    Off the coast of Aetolia-Acarnania the majority of the Ionian Islands are clustered together. They are mountainous and forested with the exception of Zakynthos, which situated to the south, off the coast of the Peloponnese. It is an island similar to the others albeit with good soil suited to agriculture.


    The People, Society and Government:

    The people of Aitolia are mainly of Doric stock and speak the north-west variant of the Doric dialect. These are the Phokaeis, the Ozolai Lokroi, the Aitoloi, the Akarnanes and the Dolopes.

    The majority of the Phokaeis proper live outside the boundaries of the province of Aitolia are of mixed Achaean and Aeolic stock and speak the Aeolic dialect. They inhabit small poleis situated along both sides of the Kephissos River on the plain located immediately north of Mount Parnassos. However, their most prised possession is Delphoi, found on the western extremity of their country. Contrary to the Phokaeis of the plain, the inhabitants of Delphoi speak the Doric language. The plain of Krissa is suited for growing corn, vines and olive trees. Moreover, the forests of Parnassos are an excellent source of game and provide good upland pastures.

    Immediately west of the plain of Krissa is the land of the Ozolai Lokroi. Their land is mountainous and unproductive although the forests provide excellent game and the uplands are suited for pasture. Their armour and mode of fighting resembles that of the Akarnanes and Aitoloi. Their main polis is Amphissa and their main port is Naupaktos.

    To the west of Ozolia Lokris is the land of Aitolia proper which is divided into Archaia Aitolia and Aitolia Epiktetos. The Aitolia Epiktetos is inhabited by several people, not all of them being Hellenes. The mountains north of Naupaktos, on the border with Lokris, are inhabited by the Apodotoi who are not Hellenes. The Ophioneis live north of the Apodotoi and are divided in two tribes. The Bomies, most of them living around the source of Euenos and the Kallies who are concentrated around their main town, called Kallion. To the north of the Ophioneis dwell the Evrytanes whose language is unintelligible to proper Hellenes. Moreover, it is said that they engage in a cult of Odysseus, having an oracle of the hero in their possession. Each of these people is subdivided in village tribes. The villages they dwell are unfortified and their inhabitants rely on raising livestock, hunting and raiding in order to survive. They are hardy people and masters in the use of the javelin. Northwest Aitolia is inhabited by the Agraioi and the Aperantoi. These people form a single tribe and were governed by a king prior to joining the Aitolikon Koinon. Their way of life resembles that of the people described earlier. The Dolopes live to the north of Aitolia, on the border with Thessaly and are not different to the people already described. Archaia Aitolia is inhabited by the Aitoloi proper whose main town is that of Thermon. It should be noted that Thermon is more of a religious and administrative centre rather than a proper polis like that of Athenai or Korinthos. It is also in this place that the treasures of the leaders of the Aitoloi are deposited. The Aitoloi live on the level part of the country as well as on the mountain slopes and hills. The plains produce excellent corn and are very well suited to horse breeding. In fact, the horses bred here are second only to those of Thessalia. The mountain slopes produce good wine and olive oil.

    The Akarnanes live west of the river Acheloos. Although they inhabit a fertile land with rich soil, very few engage in agriculture. Instead they prefer to use the alluvial plain of Acheloos as pasture for their herds and flocks. Other sources of wealth for the Akarnanes are raiding, piracy and small scale iron mining. Most of them dwell in villages and their main polis is Stratos. They fight as light infantry and are expert slingers. The Akarnanes govern themselves through a confederation of villages and poleis that convened in Stratos. The confederation consisted of a council and the general assembly [ekklesia]. At the head of the league a Strategos [general] was elected, usually a person from the upper classes. The council had a Grammateus [secretary] which must have been a person of importance. There was also an Ierapolos [chief priest] of Apollo which was an office of importance as well. Either the name of the Strategos or Ierapolos was used for official dates in a manner similar to that of the First Archon in Athenai.

    By the 3rd century most of these people were members of the Aitolikon Koinon, a confederation of tribal villages and poleis, founded by the Aitoloi sometime in the 4th century. Other members of the confederation included the Malians of southern Thessalia and later into the Hellenistic Age, city-states located elsewhere in Hellas. The Koinon was a federal organisation governed by a council. Participation in the council was proportional to the contribution of each community to the army of the Koinon. The structure of the council varied with the times. The elected chief executive was called Strategos [general]. Later a second office was added, that of Hipparchos. The Hipparchos was probably second in command and commander of the cavalry. The council also elected one Grammateus [secretary] initially that became two, one senior to the other, in later years. These offices changed in importance as time progressed and there is no clear picture of the hierarchy below the Strategos. The upper echelons of the government were formed by an elite oligarchy, the fundamental governing body, however, was the Ekklesia [assembly]. The Ekklesia convened twice per year. The main place was Thermon in September when the Thermike, a festival with games, took place. The other instance was in spring during the festival of Panaitolike. However, this convention was not fixed to one place, probably to accommodate for the expansion of the Koinon in places away from Aitolia proper. Voting rights were probably given to all freemen above the age of thirty. The Koinon conducted a common foreign policy, raised armies collectively and implemented economic standardisation by using a uniform system of weights and measures, a common currency as well as levying taxes from its members.


    History:

    The people of Aitolia, with the exception of the Phokaeis, enter the historical record in the time of the Peloponnesian Wars.

    The Ozolai Lokroi appear to have promised help to the Athenian general Demosthenes but after his defeat they submitted to the Spartan general Eurylochos. In the 3rd century they are members of the Aitolikon Koinon.

    The Akarnanes after having been deprived of their best ports by settlers from Korinthos desired to ally with Athenai. When Korinthioi settlers from Ambrakia expelled the Aphilochioi from their main polis of Argos Amphilochikon the Akarnanes supported the Amphilochioi in their cause for restoration and sought help from Athenai. The expedition led by Phormion managed to expel the Korinthioi and restore the polis to the Amphilochioi. Following this event, all the Akarnanes became staunch supporters of the Athenian cause apart from the poleis of Oiniadai and Astakos. In 391 BC the Akarnanes found themselves at war with the Achaioi as the latter had captured the polis of Kalydon in Aitolia. The hard-pressed Achaioi asked the Lakedaimonioi for help who sent a force under Agesilaos and laid waste to the country but with no lasting consequences. During the time of Alexandros the Aitoloi had managed to conquer most of Akarnania. As a result, the Akarnanes allied themselves with the Makedones until their submission to the Romans after the latter’s victory at Kynoskephalai. In 191 BC, Antiochos of Syria invaded Hellas and the Akarnanes were persuaded to join him by their countryman Mnasilochos. When Antiochos was defeated, Akarnania passed again under Roman control. It is not certain whether Akarnania was part of Achaea or Epeirus at the time Hellas became a Roman province. It is, however, mentioned later as part of Epeirus. Emperor Avgvstvs moved the inhabitants of many towns to the city of Nikopolis, founded after the battle of Aktion. Strabo describes the region, in his time, as exhausted and worn.

    The Aitoloi did not get involved in the First Peloponnesian War until their country was attacked by the Athenaioi under Demosthenes in 455 BC. As a result of this hostile action they decided to support the Lakedaimonioi. Earlier that year the Athenaioi had settled the Messenioi in Naupaktos and the latter found themselves under constant harassing and raiding from the Aitoloi. Hence, they managed to persuade General Demosthenes to assist them in subduing the Evrytanes, Ophioneis and Apodotoi. Demosthenes set out from Naupaktos with a considerable force but did not manage to cover much ground before coming under attack from the entire force of the Aitoloi near the town of Aigition. The hoplites of the Athenaioi found themselves at a great disadvantage fighting light troops on broken terrain. Furthermore, Demosthenes had few light infantry of his own and could not counter the attacks of the Aitoloi. In the end, the expeditionary force was wholly defeated and routed. Shortly afterwards, the Aitoloi joined the Lakedaimonioi under Eurylochos on their attack against Naupaktos. Demosthenes managed to hold them off with difficulty greatly helped by the assistance provided by the Akarnanes. Thus ends the involvement of the Aitoloi in the Peloponnesian Wars apart from some serving as mercenaries under the Athenaioi in Sikelia. Until the rise of Makedon there is barely any record of the Aitoloi. During this period there must have been frequent hostilities between them and the Akarnanes.

    After the death of Alexandros, in 323 BC, the Aitoloi participated in the Lamian War on the side of the Hellenes against the Makedones. The Hellenes were eventually defeated at Krannon in 322 BC. After making peace with Athenai, Antipatros and Krateros assembled a large army and invaded Aitolia. The Aitoloi instead of confronting the Makedones withdrew in the mountains until the Makedones were forced to retire in order to march against Perdikkas. In the following wars the contenders to the throne of Makedon actively sought an alliance with the Aitoloi due to the latter’s renowned bravery and ferocity in battle. In this manner begun the lasting influence of the Aitoloi in the politics of Hellas and beyond. Their reputation further increased during the invasion of the Keltoi in 279 BC. In the army assembled at Thermopylai the Aitoloi participated with the largest contingent and it was them that bore the brunt of the fighting against the invaders. Moreover, they were the ones to drive back the Galatai who invaded their homeland and sacked Kallion committing many atrocities. Furthermore, they were instrumental in defending the Oracle of Delphoi when attacked by the Galatai. To commemorate these achievements dedicated statues and trophies to the Sanctuary of Delphoi.

    After the expulsion of the Galatai from Hellas the Aitoloi have come to be regarded as one of the three most powerful states in Hellas, the others being Makedonia and Achaia. The Aitoloi, similarly to the Achaioi, were a federal state. The Aitolikon Koinon was propably formed sometime in the 4th century, perhaps during the time of Phillipos, the father of Alexandros, as hinted by an inscription on the statue of Aitolos found in Thermon as well as from the cession of Naupaktos to the Aitoloi by Philippos. The Koinon, however, was probably formalised during the invasion of their homeland by Krateros and Antipatros as a measure of defending their lands against invaders. After defeating the Galatai, the Aitoloi returned to their casual habits which included raiding and probably piracy as well. As a result, their previous dubious reputation persisted despite their recently acquired glory.

    By 220 BC the Aitolikon Koinon was at the height of its power exerting control over southern Thessalia and Epeiros, Boiotia, controlled Delphoi as well as the Amphictyonic Assemly. Furthermore, its alliances included the island of Kephallonia in the Ionian Sea, several poleis in the Peloponnesos as well as in Mikra Asia. In that year the Aitoloi invaded Messenia starting a war with the Achaioi that came to be known as the Social War. Philippos of Makedonia, having taken the side of the Achaioi, invaded Aitolia in 218 BC and in a lightning march took Thermon by surprise. The polis was sacked, deprived of all its riches and then set to fire. Philippos preserved the statues of the gods but burned the temples to retaliate for the sack of Dion and Dodone by the Aitoloi. The Social War concluded in 217 BC. In 211 BC the Aitoloi declared war on Makedonia again, this time with the support of the Romans with whom they had formed an alliance. The Romans however were too occupied with Hannibal in Italy and could not afford to assist the Aitoloi. Philippos marched again into Aitolia and reoccupied Thermon. Eventually, the demoralised Aitoloi concluded peace with Philippos in 205 BC. This treaty was followed by a peace treaty between Phillipos and the Romans. Hostilities between Philippos and the Romans resumed in 200 BC. The Aitoloi remained neutral until the success of General Galba led them to join the Roman side. They fought with the Romans against the Makedones in the battle of Kynoskephalai with a contingent of cavalry which proved instrumental in defeating Philippos.

    The Romans settled their affairs in Hellas in a manner that left much to be desired by the Aitoloi. Hence, they invited Antiochos of Syria as soon as Flaminivs departed Hellas. This led to a war between the basileus Antiochos and the Romans which ended by the defeat of the former in Thermopylai in 191 BC. The Aitoloi managed to obtain a truce with the Romans but resumed the hostilities as soon as they learned of the successes of Antiochos in Mikra Asia. Consul Marcvs Fvlvivs Nobilior crossed over to Aitolia and laid siege to Ambrakia, one of the strongest poleis of the Koinon. Antiochos was eventually defeated by the Romans in the battle of Magnesia and the Aitoloi pleaded for peace. This time, peace was only obtained at the price of their independence and were reduced to vassals of Rome. After the Romans subdued Makedonia in 167 BC, the Roman party of the Aitoloi with the assistance of Roman soldiers assaulted and massacred around 550 members of the opposition while others were sent to Italy as prisoners. After this event the Koinon was formally dissolved. In the following years Aitolia was included in the province of Achaea although it not known for sure when that happened. As in Akarnania, several poleis were deserted and their inhabitants were moved by Emperor Avgvstvs to Nikopolis. Strabo describes Aitolia after the Roman conquest as a desolate country similar to the state of Akarnania. In later years Roman presence remained minimal and was constricted to the coast were the only road was found. The inhabitants of the interior continued their lives in a manner similar to that of the past centuries.


    Strategy:

    Aitolia’s mountainous terrain render it inaccessible by land for the most part leaving only small corridors suited to the free movement of armies. These access points are the Gulf of Ambrakia to the north, the Delphoi Pass to the east and Antirrhion on the coast which controls the passage to the Peloponnese. As a result it is an easily defensible province, suited to ambushes and can serve as a base from which attacks can be staged to neighbouring enemies. Despite its military advantages, however, it is poor and one cannot expect much economic benefits.
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  15. #15
    COYATOYPIKC Senior Member Flatout Minigame Champion Arjos's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Just saw your new edits @I Am Herenow

    Here are the answers:
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Quote Originally Posted by I Am Herenow View Post
    This does not make sense; do you mean 'Darius allowed'?
    Yes, his father the King granted him free hand and money to recruit mercenaries...

    What do you mean by 'impressed enough'?
    Failing to coerce them into joining his army, through fear and a show of strength...


    Gah forgot my previous post was the last one, sorry for the double :(
    Last edited by Arjos; 06-18-2013 at 16:57.

  16. #16
    Arrogant Ashigaru Moderator Ludens's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Quote Originally Posted by Arjos View Post
    Gah forgot my previous post was the last one, sorry for the double :(
    No need to apologize. In fact, if you had edited the previous post instead of submitting a new one, I wouldn't have noticed that the thread had been updated.
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  17. #17

    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    I have not been capable of working much on Lakonike in the past few weeks (mainly due to school work), but with the holidays approaching I have good hopes I can start working on it again. Apologies for the delay.
    Last edited by Adalingum; 06-20-2013 at 14:22.

  18. #18

    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Damn, It seems I forgot to do epeiros :/

    I'm sorry for the inconvenience. It having a description at all is more important to me than actually "being in the game" so if anyone wants to write the description, feel free to do so.
    "Who fights can lose, who doesn't fight has already lost."
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    RABO! Member Brave Brave Sir Robin's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Been very busy with a variety of things lately but I'm getting back around to this now. About halfway done with Parthyaia.
    From Frontline for fixing siege towers of death
    x30 From mikepettytw for showing how to edit in game text.
    From Brennus for wit.

  20. #20
    EBII Bricklayer Member V.T. Marvin's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Just letting you know guys that thanks to our great new auxiliary RAWROMNOM all your already provided descriptions are now fully integrated into our build.

    So if more of you want to see their text in the game as it first comes out it is the best time to start writing.

    And once again many thanks to all contributors, this community makes us proud!
    Last edited by V.T. Marvin; 12-02-2013 at 16:32.

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  21. #21
    Member Member Evocata's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    I've started on Thessaly.
    "Wise men speak because they have something to say, fools speak because they have to say something"

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  22. #22
    Member Member Evocata's Avatar
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    Greetings gentlemen, I have just finished the Traveler's log and have begun the Geography, I wanted to know what you guys think. Is it good enough?

    Province: Thessalia

    Traveller's Log:
    The traveler departs Athenai, heading north to Thessalia which was once called Aeolus. The north, west, and south are lands of high mountains and wooded valleys, where the breath of Zeus-Olympios chills the air in winter, and from where the river Pienios is fed. Mountain shepherds, and poor villages of free Penestae are all that inhabit these desolate places. It is in the northern Pendos mountains where the traveler may gaze upon a magnificent sight; the mountain of Olympos, home of the twelve, rising from the plains into the sky. Away from the mountains, in the heart of Thessalia, are the gentle plains of Trikala and Larissa, broken only along the breadth of the Pienios. Here the skill of the horsemen exceeds that of all except the Makedons. Here also came the famed centaurs and their descendants, the beautiful stallions that graze here still. The earth is blessed by Demeter to be the most fertile in Hellas, large herds graze here, and grain common as grass. Many small poelis are scattered across the plains, each one ruled by a local genos. Blessed among these is Larissa; founded by Acrisius who was slain by his grandson Perseus, also the renowned birthplace of the glorious hero Achilleus. In the east, the plains fall away into the realm of Posiedon; the waters of the Aegean. The coast is sheer and ragged until the arm of the the Pelion stretches out to shelter the waters, and provide safe passage for trade ships and fishermen. The chief poelis of this region are Demetrias, Pagasae, and Iolcos, all thriving ports. Dominant in Thessalia are the old Aeolians, of whom most genos descend, who took Thessalia in times long past, and who made the Penestae who had lived there as the helots in Laconia.
    Last edited by Evocata; 05-12-2013 at 18:13.
    "Wise men speak because they have something to say, fools speak because they have to say something"

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  23. #23
    ΤΑΞΙΑΡΧΟΣ Member kdrakak's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Quote Originally Posted by Evocata View Post
    Greetings gentlemen, I have just finished the Traveler's log and have begun the Geography, I wanted to know what you guys think. Is it good enough?
    good enough for me. :)
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    ΤΑΞΙΑΡΧΟΣ Member kdrakak's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Attike. Not too long I hope.

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

    Province Attike
    Traveler’s Log
    Arriving at Piraeus by ship is probably the best choice for the traveler visiting Attike. To the west lies Eleysis where the famous “mystiria” took place and mount Aegaleon from whose top the Persian King of old, Xerxes, witnessed the destruction of his fleet in the straits of Salamis; to the east the coastal area of Faliron and the rivers’ delta. The traveler has only to follow the rivers upstream to reach the center of Athens and the Acropolis. Here the traveler can walk in the footsteps of Socrates, Plato and so many others. Aeschylus, Euripides and Sophocles mastered drama and touched the very core of human soul, as did Aristophanes from another angle. Echoes of Pericles’ voice might still charm the traveler and it was not so long ago since Demosthenes roused the “Demos” against a now deified Megas Alexandros. This is where democracy was cradled, philosophy born, and Hellenic spirit turned into a beacon to be taken to the edge of India.
    Geography
    Attike is a peninsula at the end of mainland Greece to the south. It borders Boeotia to the northwest and its coast face Euboea to the East and the Peloponnesus to the south. The province is dominated in the center by mountains: Parnes, Pentelikon and Aegaleon. They form a basin in which the city of Athens is situated. Three main rivers ran through Athens: Cephissus, Ilissos and Eridanos and two smaller ones: Skiros kai Kyklovoros. Asopos and Erasinos are outside Athens in Attike. Technically not belonging to Attike, the islands of Salamis and Aegina are part of it for almost all intents and purposes.
    The People, Society and Government
    The people of Attike pride themselves on being autochthonous. Ionian and even Pelasgian descent was claimed. During classical times criteria for citizenship were not as strict as before so the population became less homogenous as it often comes to pass in any cosmopolitan city.
    The Athenians were excellent seafarers and merchants and their skill was put to good use both for the accumulation of wealth and war. Extensive trade also entails cultural exchange and variety, which in turn makes a fertile base for artistic and intellectual development. Hence, the Athenians exhibited active political acumen, which led to democracy, and a wonderfully restless spirit that ushered in a new era for science, philosophy and the fine arts; literally, the birth of western civilization.
    Athens displays an interesting progression in types of government through the centuries. Kings ruled until after the turn of the first millennium BC. When the last King, Codrus died, his sons became hereditary archons, with less power than Kings. In 753 BC the hereditary right was abolished and three archons shared power with different duties: the archon eponymous that later served as a dating system of reference, the polemarchos in charge of armed forces, and the archon basileus mostly with ceremonial authority. The archons were essentially the chosen leaders of the landed aristocracy. They maintained social balance up to a point, but ultimately had to concede power to a wider base. The aristocracy fought back, often using excessive force, and tyrants ruled the city. These were often driven from power or even killed and the “tyranoktonoi” (tyrannicides) earned lasting fame in ancient Athens. After 508 BC, the reforms of Cleisthenes saw the introduction and flourishing of democracy in the immediate, participant form.
    King Cecrops is considered to have divided Athenians into four “phyles”, or tribes and taught them marriage, writing and ceremonial burial. Though the latter claims can perhaps be disproved historically, it hints on the importance of such institutions for Athenian life. They were later divided in ten tribes by Cleisthenes. A careful reader will notice that the line of rulers and elected leaders is filled with descendants of old aristocrats most belonging to the Alcmaeonidae, a tribe whose name can be roughly translated as “those who hold power”. Democracy… an elusive concept.
    History
    Attike’s history is defined by that of its capital city, Athens. History and myth often intertwine in cases of cities like Athens. Aktaios, whose name means “of the coast”, was the mythical king of Akte which refers to the coastal areas of Attike. It is possible that a loose cultural and perhaps political connection existed in Neolithic times and provided the foundation for the myth of Aktaios. According to the myth Aktaios had three daughters one of which was married to the Cecrops the founder and first king of Athens. Its Acropolis was initially named Cekropia after him. He is credited with providing the city with its first institutions. Aktaios and Cecrops were both considered “earth-born”. The line of Athenian kings continues and featuring prominently we find Erechtheus, another “earth-born” king in whose time Poseidon and Athena contested for patronage of the city. The result was a city re-founded under a glorious name that would command the respect of the likes of Megas Alexandros and Emperor Hadrian, even when conquered and subdued. Back to the line of kings, Theseus, whose exploits make him perhaps the most famous mythical king, has a story of very important historical implications for Athens both external and domestic. His labors (“athloi”), too extensive to thoroughly mention here, represent the efforts made to rid Athens of Minoan control (the slaying of the Minotaur, the bull of king Minos) and consolidate Attica under Athenian control, probably not in that order.
    Theseus’ son, Menestheus fought according to Homer in the Trojan War. Modern theory on the Trojan War suggests that it was in fact a series of confrontations between the rising Mycenaean power and Hittite client kingdoms like Wilusa (Ilion – Troy), the land of river Seka and the land of the Luka (Lykia), which lasted as long as two hundred years, in sharp contrast to Homer’s ten. Putting the pieces together, it seems plausible that the city of Athens first consolidated its power in Attike, then participated in the Mycenaean invasion that brought down Minoan Crete. Perhaps there was even a Mycenaean palace on or around the Acropolis at some point in the distant past. There certainly was a section of Cyclopean walls present until much later. Like all important power centers of that time, Athens contributed ships and manpower to the eastern conflicts whether against Wilusa, the land of Luka or Cyprus. And then the world changed.
    Following the collapse of the Bronze Age in the eastern Mediterranean, due to invasion, famine, plague, volcanic eruption, seismic activity or any combination thereof, Athens no longer has a king - Codrus was the last one - but a hereditary ruler that in later times was chosen or elected. Boasting the fact that its people were indigenous, contrary to Dorian adversaries like the Lakedaemonians who “invaded” at some point after the collapse, the example of Athens suggests continuity between the Mycenaean and the “Dark Age” of the eighty century BC in mainland Greece. An evolution in mode of government and social function came about in order to match the conditions of the new world order. Next to Euboean archeological evidence, Attic pottery and other finds suggest that Athens managed to retain some sort of cohesion for Attike as a whole and to revitalize distant trade routes as a source of income. Perhaps wealth was the element that brought about political change that granted access to power for an increasing portion of the Athenian citizenry, culminating in the establishment of Democracy.
    The rulers (archons) brought Athens to a state of social imbalance that Dracon tried to remedy with a line of extremely harsh laws (one of them stipulated that the punishment for sloth was death). Dracon was only successful in passing into history for his “draconteia metra” an expression still used today in Greece for strict security measures. Solon followed soon after and brought an end to the city’s woes with his “Seisachtheia”, the abolishment of mounting debt. Solon was considered a very wise man and he is thought to have paved the way for democracy. However, his reforms initially faced resistance and their results were not immediately recognized.
    It was later, in 508 BC, that the tyrant Hippias fell and Cleisthenes came to power in Athens, even after being initially exiled by the opposing faction, and changed the political landscape. The four “tribes” became ten and the familial division became a geographical one. The sense of belonging was transferred from the wider family to the “demos” or municipality. Members of parliament came from all social strata and were sworn “to advise in accordance with the law and the interest of the people”. A broader power base was formed and democracy was born. With it came ostracism, a measure aimed at threats to democracy, but eventually targeted anyone with more-than-normal power in the Athenian political scene. Most of the prominent figures glorified during the Persian Wars and following conflicts were eventually ostracized.
    Democracy was well established in Athens, when in 490 BC, the Persian fleet anchored near Marathon. Miltiades led the Athenian and Plataean phalanxes in a charge to avoid the Persian arrow volleys, rout the flanks and encircle the Persian center. A massacre ensued after the rout. The Persian army whose elite force, the heavy cavalry, did not take part in the battle, re-embarked and made for the coast of Phaliron at southern Attike. The Hellenic army force-marched from Marathon to the site and the Persian fleet retired at the very sight of last night’s victors. King Darius was said to have charged one of his servant to remind him daily of the Athenians. As if his defeat was not a sufficiently strong reminder. Up until that time the Persian army had suffered few reversals and fewer still were outright defeats. For example, the Scyths of the western Euxinus were not defeated, but neither had they won; and the strategic goal of securing Darius’ flank for a march toward Greece was achieved.
    Miltiades had little luck in the following year and failure in his endeavors led to his death while in prison.
    Ten years later, in 480 BC the mighty Xerxes crossed into Europe. Receiving a first taste at Thermopylae at the hands of elite Spartans, he then marched his army into Attike. There he devastated the countryside and then laid siege to Athens' walls that protected the elderly and the unfit for combat. Pythia the Delphian oracle had prophesized that these walls would save the city. The Persians made short work of both the walls and the inhabitants and delivered the city to fire. The powerful Xerxes must have thought his work in Hellas to be nearing an end.
    Themistocles however proposed that the wooden walls were the mighty Athenian fleet. The Battle of Salamis, which he almost singlehandedly made inevitable, proved him right. In his attempt to persuade, he is said to have been slapped by the Spartan commander Euribiades, only to reply “Strike (me) but listen”. Xerxes had to watch powerless from his throne up on mount Aegaleon as his fleet was drawn into a trap and relentlessly destroyed. Gone were his hopes for a swift end to the war and the invasion of the Peloponnesus. Accepting the inevitable, his army, unsupported by a fleet, retired under Mardonius his son in law and Xerxes himself crossed the Aegean. At this point Athenian ascension to regional prominence begins.
    Themistocles was initially ostracized and exiled to Argos, then accused of treason against the common Greek cause. He fled to the court of the Persian king where he died a satrap of Magnesia.
    In the following years (480 BC to 460BC) Athens dominated most of coastal Hellas and the islands, as well as the invaluable trade routes to the northern Euxinus, which secured the grain supply. Such was the confidence of Athenian power that conflict was moved to lands under Persian rule and even the Nile Delta in Egypt, where after initial success, disaster followed. These are the years of Athenian Hegemony (the first League) and Cimon, Miltiades’ son. A less celebrated figure but as capable and important as his father or even Themistocles.
    Cimon was also ostracized. He was later recalled to Athens and died in combat on Cyprus in 451 BC.
    Athenian supremacy was not unrivaled and during its peak (460 BC to 430 BC) the Spartans and their allies, mainly Peloponnesians, formed a counterweight. They were able to hold their own, but had to watch Pericles turn the Delian League into an Athenian empire and dress the Acropolis and the whole city in splendor and glory. They were perhaps somewhat relieved when Pericles managed to ostracized Cimon but in his person found an adversary as formidable as his predecessor and politically keener. Pericles was able to consolidate power and further broaden the political and military base of the state (much as the Romans repeatedly did). There is some controversy regarding this policy, even in our time, but it should come as no surprise; there are solid arguments on both sides. Although elected, Pericles' time in power has been called the arche of one man, but also “The Golden Age of Pericles”. He sponsored the arts and literature, fortified the city and expanded its sphere of influence. He led the Athenians during the first two years of the Peloponnesian War.
    Pericles died in 429 BC of the epidemic, that followed the siege of Athens by the Spartans, as did both his sons before him. His case is an exception when compared to the demise of other capable Athenian leaders, both before and after him.
    The Peloponnesian War (431 BC to 404 BC) went through three phases. The first phase (431 BC to 421 BC) ended with the Peace of Nicias and was strategically a draw, but might be considered a marginal Athenian victory on a different level. Operations in Sfakteria led to the first ever surrender of Spartan hoplites, thus compromising their perceived invincibility.
    The second phase (415 BC to 413 BC) was the phase of the Sicilian expedition proposed by Alcibiades, a particularly gifted individual whose charisma and ability rival Alexander’s. After internal turmoil in Athens, while the fleet was en route to Sicily, the campaign ended up being led by the militarily conservative Nicias of the previous Peace and ended in disaster. Alcibiades escaped the trap and defected to Sparta, where it is said he become more Spartan than the inhabitants.
    The third phase (411 BC to 404 BC) saw the return of Alcibiades who turned the tide in favor of the Athenians in the first five years. However, the Athenians disfavored yet another brilliant leader and he exiled himself first to Thrace, where he tried to avert the disaster at Aegospotamoi, then to Phrygia.
    Alcibiades met his end in Phrygia under obscure circumstances.
    Athens was never to restore its supremacy, but joined coalitions that allowed it to balance out Spartan and Theban power as their power rose and waned. A similar attempt to hold Macedonian power was permanently laid to rest at the Battle of Chaeronea, by Alexander’s first famous charge. Both Philip and Alexander held their hand when it came to Athens. Both could perhaps have taken a harsher stance than they did. Alexander could certainly have leveled the city much as he did Thebes. But then a friendly powerful navy is priceless to a man planning to invade Asia.
    In the following centuries Athens was a wealthy and culturally preeminent city but unable or unwilling to affect the balance of power against Macedon that garrisoned the city fiercely at times or later Roman occupation after the Battle of Corinth in 146 BC. The Roman Emperor Hadrian loved the city and sponsored it generously.
    Strategy
    Attike is the eastern gate to the Peloponnesus from the North and to Euboea. It is an important base from which to control the Aegean and project power across to Asia Minor. The silver mines at Lavrion are an important source of income, which in the past helped propel Athens towards regional supremacy.

    Last edited by kdrakak; 05-14-2013 at 21:10. Reason: corrected according to Ulises' observations and a bit more
    -Silentium... mandata captate; non vos turbatis; ordinem servate; bando sequute; memo demittat bandum et inimicos seque;
    Parati!
    -Adiuta...
    -...DEUS!!!

    Completed EB Campaigns on VH/M: ALL... now working for EBII!

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  25. #25
    Athena's favorite Member Vlixes's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Lovely work sir ^^
    Just have these observations:

    "Following the collapse of the Bronze Age"
    "due [...] divine intervention" which perspective do we favor here? :)
    "[...]an end to the city’s woes with his [...]"
    "his “Seisachtheia”, the abolishment "
    "came ostracism, a measure aimed at threats "
    "[...]laid siege to the “wooden walls” that protected the elderly and the unfit for combat" Athen's walls, right? :)
    “Strike (me) but listen”.
    "Egypt, where after"
    "[...](460 BC to 430 BC) the Spartans and their allies,[...]"
    "There are critics and counter-arguments, but there always are." This sentece is not clear. At first glance is not clear to what those critics and counter-arguments refer and how should the reader interpret the adversative sentence, which seems to loosen the seriousness of the text. Second, it contradicts the afirmative sentence to which it seems to be related.
    "[...]followed the siege of Athens after it[...]" Which, by who?
    "individual (//and a personal favorite[...]" quite obvious :)
    "[...]Both Philip and Alexander held their hand when it came to Athens.[...]" Philip is not properly introduced. What does this sentence means?
    Last edited by Vlixes; 05-12-2013 at 17:22.
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  26. #26
    Member Member Marcus F's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    i would love to help the EBII team but is their some sort of guideline to follow when writing a regional description? because it could get out of hand/messy quickly. I could do some research for the team regarding a specific region and pass on the information to the appropriate team member if this would help???
    Last edited by Marcus F; 05-25-2013 at 00:33.


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  27. #27
    EBII Bricklayer Member V.T. Marvin's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    Thank you for you willingness to help, Marcus F!

    Check the OP for an example of a description written by Brennus on a British province. Try to keep the structure, but don't be shy to write it shorter. Focus on history just before and during EB timeframe, i.e. cca 300 - 1 BC.

  28. #28
    ΤΑΞΙΑΡΧΟΣ Member kdrakak's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    This is just to let everyone know I am back on putting together the piece for Makedonia. I aim to have it ready by the next weekend.
    -Silentium... mandata captate; non vos turbatis; ordinem servate; bando sequute; memo demittat bandum et inimicos seque;
    Parati!
    -Adiuta...
    -...DEUS!!!

    Completed EB Campaigns on VH/M: ALL... now working for EBII!

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  29. #29
    HopeLess From Humanity a World Member Empire*Of*Media's Avatar
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    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    please dont forget KURDISH UNITS !! in all Total War Series they created a very Weak and not accurate Kurdish units !!
    as in GREATER Iran & Middle East, there The Kurdish units were important for enemies, because they were truly brave and powerful, as we see in Wars Between MADAI (medes) with Ashurians (Assyrians), Achamenid Persians with Greeks, specially in Xenphone's Anabasis (Karduchians), Parthians, as Kurds were like Parthians-in Guerrilla & Partizan fights,Sassanids used them against Romans in Hard Ararat and Qandil mountains of modern Turkey and in armenia and etc, and many more including Safavid persians with Ottomon Turks and ETC. and although Ancient Kurdish Lands were greater than this, that its vastness, is from Kapadochia (Kapadukiya) to kermanshah or Behistun in iran and from Modern Azerbaijan Republic (Adurbadegan) to modern Musel (or Mousl) and to Modern Eskandarun in Mediteranian!! means consists of great parts of now Turkey and Iran and Iraq, and much northern parts of Syria!

    so it has played a big role in ancient eras as even we had a great KURDISH EMPIRE, The Medians (medes) in 700-550 BC that overcame the Assyrians,Persians,Armenians and united them. but unfortunately there is a fact that Kurds in that times never started writing its own History, and what we have now its from Russians and Germans in early 20th Century and even that is incomplete.

    but anyway, even that inaccurate & false Kurdish units were in Total War, i was surprised that even not one indication was about Kurds in EB1 !! when you create an accurate Persian & Greek & Barbarian Civilizations, you must be at least pay attention to its Ethnic units.

    and of course dont forget religion! in EB 1 the most thing that it lacked, was Religion in Cultures and kingdoms.

    another suggest for EB 2 = https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showt...ot-Repetitive-!
    Last edited by Empire*Of*Media; 06-02-2013 at 16:57.

  30. #30

    Default Re: Regional Descriptions: Help the EBII Team

    I've perused the thread to see if Alexandria was taken and it doesn't appear to be. I'll take Alexandria.

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