HISTORY 225: 11/16, eighth paper topic

The following assignment must be brought to the relevant discussion session.

In writing this assignment, use footnotes for references to the ancient texts. Cite Ancient Greece
by page number. DO NOT cite any modern sources other than Ancient Greece unless instructed
by the professor.

The grading of this assignment will be based on organization (1/3), use of evidence (1/2), and
mechanics including grammar, spelling, and punctuation (1/6).

WRITE NO MORE THAN 750 WORDS.

The eighth paper topic: ‘How much of the success of Philip of Macedon was due to his
military reforms and battlefield leadership, and how much to the character of the
Macedonian monarchy and to the people and resources of Macedon?

The purpose of this assignment is to assess the role of an individual in history. Philip of Macedon
was a highly successful general and diplomat. Much of his success is his own doing, but how
much? On the one hand, he made reforms for which he can take credit. On the other hand, he
inherited a throne, and with it a set of institutions and customs, that were favorable to his
designs. One such institution was Macedonian royal ‘companions’. Kings of Macedon had
always had an entourage of these companions. Philip then put this entourage to a new use, for he
built up his army by inviting talented Macedonians and Greeks to become members of this cadre.

Review these and other advantages given to Philip and assess his contribution. The Greek
historian Theopompus, who wrote while Philip was still alive, said Philip was the most important
man ever to live in Europe. To what extent do you agree?