People > Thrasybulus of Syracuse

Thrasybulus of Syracuse

Background

Thrasybulus of Syracuse was a brief and controversial ruler of the city-state of Syracuse on the island of Sicily. He came to power in 466 BCE, following the death of his brother, Hieron I, who had been the tyrant of Syracuse. Thrasybulus' rule was marked by internal strife and significant opposition, which ultimately led to his downfall.

Key Points about Thrasybulus of Syracuse

1. Background and Rise to Power:

   • Thrasybulus was the brother of Hieron I and succeeded him as the tyrant of Syracuse. Hieron I had ruled Syracuse successfully and was known for his military victories and patronage of the arts. Upon Hieron’s death, Thrasybulus seized power, hoping to continue his brother’s legacy.

2. Rule and Policies:

   • Thrasybulus' rule was characterized by his attempts to maintain the tyrannical control established by his brother and his predecessor, Gelon. He continued the policies of centralizing power and maintaining strong military defenses. However, his rule was much less stable and faced significant opposition from both within Syracuse and from its allied cities.

3. Opposition and Conflict:

   • Unlike Hieron I, Thrasybulus lacked the support of the citizens and the political acumen to maintain control. His rule was marked by increasing dissatisfaction among the populace and the aristocracy. The citizens of Syracuse and the allied cities, tired of tyrannical rule, began to revolt against his authority.

4. Overthrow and Exile:

   • Thrasybulus' rule lasted only about a year. In 465 BCE, the opposition against him culminated in a revolt led by the aristocrats and supported by the general populace. Thrasybulus was unable to quell the rebellion and was ultimately overthrown. After his defeat, he was exiled from Syracuse. His fall marked the end of the Deinomenid dynasty's rule over Syracuse.

5. Aftermath:

   • After the overthrow of Thrasybulus, Syracuse transitioned towards a more democratic form of government. The city enjoyed a period of relative stability and prosperity, no longer under the control of tyrants. The end of Thrasybulus’ rule marked a significant turning point in Syracuse’s political history, as it shifted away from tyrannical governance.

Legacy

Thrasybulus of Syracuse is often remembered more for the brevity and failure of his rule than for any significant accomplishments. His inability to maintain control and the swift uprising against him highlight the growing discontent with tyrannical rule in ancient Greek city-states during that period. His downfall paved the way for a more democratic and stable governance structure in Syracuse, which influenced the political landscape of the region in subsequent years.

Sources

Aristotle's Politics 5.1315b, 5.1312b