Pericles was born into one of Athens most distinguished families. His father Xanthippus was a hero of the Persian Wars, and his mother was a niece of the reformer Cleisthenes.

Pericles served as choregos (sponsor) for Aeschylus tragedy The Persians. This public service marked his entry into Athenian political life.

Pericles prosecuted the conservative leader Cimon for allegedly accepting bribes from Macedonia. Though Cimon was acquitted, the trial established Pericles as a democratic leader.

After Cimons ostracism, Pericles became the leading figure in Athenian politics. He allied with Ephialtes to reform the Areopagus and strengthen democracy.

Pericles introduced pay for jury service, allowing poorer citizens to participate in government. He also opened the archonship to the lower classes.

Pericles initiated the building program that created the Parthenon and other monuments on the Acropolis. He used Delian League funds, causing controversy among allies.

Pericles negotiated the Thirty Years Peace with Sparta, ending the First Peloponnesian War. The treaty recognized Athenian dominance at sea and Spartan dominance on land.

Pericles began his famous relationship with Aspasia of Miletus, a brilliant foreign woman. She became his companion and intellectual partner, hosting philosophers and artists.

The Parthenon was completed, housing Phidias magnificent gold and ivory statue of Athena. The building program transformed Athens into the most beautiful city in Greece.

The Peloponnesian War broke out between Athens and Sparta. Pericles strategy was to avoid land battles and rely on Athenian naval superiority and the Long Walls.

Pericles delivered his famous Funeral Oration honoring the war dead. The speech, recorded by Thucydides, became the definitive statement of Athenian democratic ideals.

A devastating plague struck Athens, killing a quarter of the population. Pericles lost his sister and both legitimate sons to the disease.

Pericles died of the plague that had devastated Athens. His death marked the end of the golden age of Athens and the beginning of Athenian decline in the Peloponnesian War.