Mania (satrap)

Mania was a Dardanian woman who served as a satrap under the Achaemenid Empire in the region of Aeolis in Anatolia during the 4th century BC. She was the wife of Zenis, a Greek who had been appointed by the Persian satrap Pharnabazus II to govern the region.

Following Zenis' death around 400 BC, Mania proved to be an exceptionally capable ruler. Pharnabazus, recognizing her intelligence and administrative skills, allowed her to inherit her husband's position, effectively making her the satrap of Aeolis. She governed the region from her base at Larissa, near modern-day İzmir, Turkey.

Mania was renowned for her competence in military affairs. She personally commanded her own mercenary army, composed largely of Greek soldiers, and successfully defended her territory against incursions from neighboring regions. She is reported to have participated actively in battles, appearing on horseback and leading her troops. Her military prowess allowed her to expand her territory and maintain a degree of autonomy within the Achaemenid Empire.

Mania's rule was not only marked by military success but also by apparent economic prosperity. The stability she provided likely contributed to the flourishing of trade and agriculture within her satrapy.

Unfortunately, Mania's reign was cut short when she was assassinated by her son, Midias, who sought to claim the satrapy for himself. This occurred sometime after 399 BC. However, Midias proved to be far less capable than his mother, and his rule was short-lived, eventually leading to the further fragmentation of the region. Mania's legacy rests on her military and administrative abilities, making her a noteworthy figure in Achaemenid history as a woman who held significant power and influence.