Quick Facts
Pelopidas: Thebes' liberator. Spartan foe. Reformed army, changed history.
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Life Journey
Pelopidas was born into a wealthy and noble Theban family.
Pelopidas received extensive training in warfare and formed a friendship with Epaminondas.
When Sparta seized the Theban citadel, Pelopidas was forced into exile.
Pelopidas led a daring conspiracy to liberate Thebes.
Pelopidas organized the Sacred Band of Thebes, an elite unit of 300 warriors.
Pelopidas led the Sacred Band to defeat a larger Spartan force.
Pelopidas and the Sacred Band crushed Spartan military supremacy at Leuctra.
Pelopidas helped lead Theban forces into the Peloponnese.
Pelopidas traveled to the Persian court.
Pelopidas was captured by the tyrant Alexander of Pherae.
Epaminondas led an army to secure Pelopidas release.
Pelopidas was killed charging at Alexander of Pherae.