Periander
Who was Periander?
Second tyrant of Corinth
Biographical data adapted from Wikipedia’s article on Periander (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Biography
Periander was the second tyrant of Corinth, ruling from around 627 to 585 BC, following in the footsteps of his father, Cypselus, as the head of the Cypselid dynasty. During his time in power, Corinth thrived economically and became one of the richest city-states in ancient Greece. His ability to manage effectively turned Corinth into a major trade center, controlling routes between the Aegean and Ionian seas. Periander also established colonies, like Potidaea in northern Greece, and kept diplomatic ties with leaders throughout the Mediterranean.
Accounts of Periander's rule vary widely. Some describe him as a harsh and tyrannical ruler who enforced strict laws and severe punishments. Others depict him as just and fair, working to ensure wealth was shared among Corinthians. These differing views may suggest that his lengthy rule had both kind and authoritarian phases.
Beyond politics, Periander was known for his intellect and wisdom. He was often included among the Seven Sages of Greece, a group of 6th-century BC thinkers and leaders known for their practical wisdom and moral lessons. Being part of this group, alongside figures like Thales and Solon, shows that people of his time valued his contributions to Greek thought and leadership. Various sayings and maxims are attributed to him, highlighting his reputation as a wise adviser.
His personal life included difficulties, notably with his wife Melissa and their sons. These family issues, recorded in ancient accounts, reportedly influenced his later decisions and behavior. Periander died around 585 BC after more than forty years of rule, leaving behind a legacy marked by both political achievements and personal challenges.
Before Fame
Periander was born into the Cypselid family around 700 BC, at a time when traditional aristocratic governments across Greece were being challenged by ambitious individuals seeking power. His father, Cypselus, had overthrown the ruling Bacchiad family in Corinth around 657 BC, making himself the ruler and creating a new political system. Growing up in this setting, Periander would have received the education expected for someone who was going to inherit Corinth's leadership, likely studying rhetoric, philosophy, and statecraft.
The 7th century BC was a period of significant political change throughout the Greek world, as monarchies and aristocracies were replaced by tyrannies in many city-states. These new rulers often gained power by gaining support from common citizens against established elites, promising economic reforms and more opportunities. Periander took over this political model from his father and improved upon it during his own rise to power after Cypselus's death.
Key Achievements
- Transformed Corinth into one of ancient Greece's wealthiest and most powerful city-states through effective economic policies
- Established successful colonies including Potidaea, extending Corinthian influence throughout the Mediterranean
- Constructed major infrastructure projects including the diolkos transport system across the Isthmus of Corinth
- Maintained over 40 years of stable rule while balancing competing social and economic interests
- Earned recognition as one of the Seven Sages of Greece for his wisdom and philosophical contributions
Did You Know?
- 01.Ancient sources credit Periander with commissioning the construction of the diolkos, a stone roadway that allowed ships to be transported across the narrow Isthmus of Corinth, avoiding the dangerous sea route around the Peloponnese
- 02.He allegedly consulted the oracle of the dead at the river Acheron to communicate with his deceased wife Melissa, asking her to reveal the location of a treasure deposit
- 03.Periander reportedly invented the practice of using male slaves as a bodyguard, considering them more loyal than free citizens who might have political ambitions
- 04.He maintained correspondence with other prominent figures of his era, including the Egyptian pharaoh and various Greek tyrants, establishing Corinth as a diplomatic center
- 05.Ancient accounts describe how Periander once asked the tyrant Thrasybulus of Miletus for advice on governing, receiving the cryptic response of cutting down the tallest stalks in a wheat field