Expansion of Macedonia under Philip II

Under the reign of Philip II (359–336 BC), the Argead kingdom of Macedonia grew from a small nation on the edge of classical Greek affairs to the ruler of Ancient Greece in just under 25 years. Philip II was a clever and strong leader who used smart diplomacy, marriage alliances, and a powerful army to achieve his goals. He changed the ancient Macedonian army into a strong fighting force, famous for its Macedonian phalanx, along with skilled Companion cavalry, hypaspists, and light infantry. His soldiers and engineers also used siege engines to capture enemy cities.

Philip II fought many battles to expand his kingdom. He defeated rulers like Kersebleptes in Thrace and kings such as Bardylis, Grabos II, and Pleuratus in Illyria (centered in modern-day Albania). He built new cities in these areas, including Philippi, Philippopolis, Herakleia Sintike, and Herakleia Lynkestis.

Philip II also faced powerful city-states like Athens and her allies and Thebes. He played an important role in the Third Sacred War and won a major battle at the Battle of Crocus Field in 352 BC. Later, after tensions rose again, his army defeated a combined Greek force at the Battle of Chaeronea in 338 BC. This victory led to the creation of the League of Corinth, which united Greek states under Macedonian leadership. Philip was chosen as commander-in-chief for a planned invasion of the Achaemenid Empire of Persia, but he was assassinated before the campaign could begin. His son, Alexander the Great, took up the task instead.