Epaminondas (419/411–362 BCE) was a prominent Greek general and statesman from Thebes during the 4th century BCE. He played a crucial role in liberating Thebes from Spartan control and establishing Theban hegemony in Greece. His military career began in a turbulent period following the Peloponnesian War, during which Sparta's dominance alienated many former allies, including Thebes. In 382 BCE, Spartan forces seized Thebes, leading to the establishment of a puppet government. Epaminondas, although initially marginalized, became a key figure in the resistance against Spartan rule.In 378 BCE, Epaminondas supported a coup led by Pelopidas that successfully expelled the Spartan garrison from Thebes. Following this, Thebes regained its independence and reformed its political structure into a democratic confederacy. Epaminondas emerged as a military leader, advocating for an aggressive stance against Sparta. His tactical innovations were evident in the Battle of Leuctra in 371 BCE, where he commanded a smaller Theban force to a decisive victory over the Spartans, effectively ending their dominance in Greece. This battle showcased his innovative tactics, including the use of a deep phalanx formation and the strategic placement of elite troops.After Leuctra, Epaminondas sought to consolidate Theban power by invading the Peloponnesus and liberating Messenian helots, thereby weakening Sparta's economic base. He established the city of Messene and encouraged Messenian exiles to return. His campaigns in the Peloponnesus were marked by significant victories, but they also led to political challenges back in Thebes, including a trial upon his return from military campaigns. Despite these challenges, he was re-elected as Boeotarch and continued to lead military efforts against Sparta.Epaminondas's subsequent invasions of the Peloponnesus in 369 BCE and 367 BCE aimed to further weaken Spartan influence and support allied city-states. His military strategies often involved forming alliances and leveraging the discontent of Sparta's former allies. However, his later campaigns faced increasing resistance, and by 362 BCE, he launched a final invasion to subdue Mantinea. This battle, the largest hoplite engagement in Greek history, resulted in a Theban victory but also led to Epaminondas's death from a mortal wound.Epaminondas's legacy is complex; he is remembered for his military genius and efforts to liberate various Greek city-states from Spartan control. However, the political divisions and rivalries in Greece persisted, ultimately leading to the rise of Macedonian power. His innovative tactics influenced future military leaders, and he is often regarded as one of the greatest generals of ancient Greece.