Attalus (general)

Attalus was a Macedonian general who served during the reign of Philip II of Macedon and Alexander the Great. He is primarily known for his role in the events leading up to Alexander's accession to the throne and his subsequent execution.

Early Life and Career:

Details about Attalus's early life are scarce. He was a prominent member of the Macedonian aristocracy and held significant influence within the court. He was associated with Cleopatra Eurydice, Philip II's seventh wife, who was also of Macedonian origin. Attalus was her uncle.

Role in the Royal Succession:

A pivotal moment in Attalus's career came during a banquet hosted by him on the eve of Philip II's planned expedition to Persia. At this event, Attalus, reportedly intoxicated, publicly called upon the gods to grant him a legitimate heir to the Macedonian throne through Cleopatra, thereby implying that Alexander was illegitimate. This greatly angered Alexander, who threw a cup at Attalus. This incident exacerbated the already strained relationship between Philip and Alexander, who subsequently fled Macedon with his mother, Olympias.

After Philip II's Death:

Following the assassination of Philip II in 336 BC, Alexander quickly secured his succession to the throne. Attalus, who was then in Asia Minor with Parmenion as part of the advance guard for the Persian campaign, represented a potential threat to Alexander's rule due to his close ties to Cleopatra and the possibility that he might rally support for a rival claimant.

Execution:

Alexander, recognizing the danger posed by Attalus, sent orders to have him executed. While accounts vary, the most common version indicates that Alexander instructed Hecataeus to assassinate Attalus. This was carried out shortly after Alexander's accession. Attalus's death eliminated a potential rival and secured Alexander's position as the undisputed king of Macedon.

Significance:

Attalus's role is significant for highlighting the complex political maneuvering that surrounded Alexander's ascension to power. His indiscreet remarks and his association with a potential rival claimant made him a target for elimination in the power struggle that followed Philip II's assassination. His execution, while seemingly brutal, demonstrates the ruthless efficiency with which Alexander consolidated his control over the Macedonian kingdom.