Themistocles (c. 524 – c. 459 BCE) was an Athenian politician and general who emerged as a significant figure during the early years of Athenian democracy. He was born in the deme of Phrearrhii, the son of Neocles, and his mother’s origins are less clear. Themistocles was known for his populist approach, gaining support from the lower classes while often opposing the Athenian nobility. He was elected archon in 493 BCE, where he advocated for the expansion of Athenian naval power, a theme that would define his political career.During the first Persian invasion of Greece, Themistocles participated in the Battle of Marathon in 490 BCE, likely serving as one of the ten Athenian strategoi. Following this victory, he became the leading politician in Athens, continuing to push for a strong navy. In 483 BCE, he persuaded the Athenians to construct a fleet of 200 triremes, which would be crucial in the upcoming conflict with Persia. He commanded the Athenian navy at the battles of Artemisium and Salamis in 480 BCE, where his strategic cunning helped secure a decisive victory against the Persian fleet.After the Persian invasion was repelled, Themistocles maintained his political influence but began to face opposition, particularly from Sparta, due to his decision to fortify Athens. His perceived arrogance led to his ostracism around 472 or 471 BCE, after which he fled to Argos. The Spartans sought to eliminate him, accusing him of treason related to their general Pausanias. Themistocles escaped to Asia Minor, where he entered the service of the Persian king Artaxerxes I, becoming the governor of Magnesia.Themistocles died in 459 BCE, likely from natural causes. His reputation was later rehabilitated, and he was recognized as a key figure in the defense of Greece against the Persian threat. His policies on naval power significantly influenced the rise of Athens as a dominant maritime force, laying the groundwork for the Athenian Empire and its golden age. His legacy continued through his descendants, who maintained a presence in the region, and he was remembered as a pivotal leader in Athenian history.