The Two Great Retreats of History

This is the story of two of the most significant military retreats in History: Xenophon leading the 10,000 Greek mercenaries back to Greece from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers after Cyrus' failed attempt to seize the Persian Throne, and Napoleon leading the remnants of the Grand Army back to France after the capture and destruction of Moscow.


“He was his mother's favourite, and as he was born after Darius assumed the crown, while Artaxerxs was born before that date, Parysatis seems to have encouraged Cyrus to consider himself the true heir to the throne, since he was in fact the king's eldest son. Through her influence he was appointed satrap of Lydia and the adjacent provinces of western Asia Minor when he was but sixteen. This position, since it made him the military ruler of that populous and wealthy section of country, was one of great importance, and doubtless had no small influence in shaping the young man's future career.” The prayers and entreaties of Parysatis saved the young man's life, and he was even permitted to return to Sardis and resume his power. He went; but with no intention of remaining in that subordinate position. Not only was he resolved to be revenged on Tissapherns, but he was equally determined to overthrow the mild Artaxerxs and convince him of the mistake of yielding to a woman's tears.