Xenophon

Xenophon of Athens was a Greek soldier, historian, philosopher, and author who lived from about 431 to 355 BC. He is best known for joining the expedition of Cyrus the Younger and helping lead the Greek mercenaries known as the Ten Thousand on their difficult retreat from Persia.

He recorded that experience in Anabasis, one of the earliest and most celebrated firsthand military memoirs. His Hellenica continues the history of Greece after Thucydides’ account ends, while works such as Memorabilia preserve stories and ideas associated with Socrates.

Xenophon also wrote about leadership, education, horsemanship, economics, and government. His clear, practical style has kept his works widely read as both historical sources and compelling literature.