Craterus

Craterus, a distinguished Macedonian general and historian, was born around three hundred seventy BC. He emerged as a prominent figure under the command of Alexander the Great, demonstrating unwavering loyalty throughout his military career. As the son of a nobleman from Orestis and brother to the admiral Amphoterus, Craterus was well-positioned within the Macedonian elite.

His military prowess was evident during the Battle of Issus in three hundred thirty-three BC, where he commanded the phalanx and all infantry on the left wing. Craterus's first independent command came in Hyrcania, where he undertook a mission against the Tapurians. He later played a crucial role at the Battle of the Hydaspes in three hundred twenty-six BC, leading the rearguard and ensuring the safety of his troops during the battle's final stages.

In a significant personal milestone, Craterus married Princess Amastris, the daughter of Oxyathres, at the festivities in Susa. His military journey took a turn in three hundred twenty-four BC when he left Alexander's troops in Opis, tasked with leading eleven thousand five hundred veteran soldiers back to Macedonia. However, his return was delayed due to logistical challenges, and he found himself in Cilicia, building a fleet when Alexander unexpectedly passed away in Babylon.

Craterus eventually crossed into Europe to assist Antipater during the Lamian War, participating in the Battle of Crannon in August three hundred twenty-two BC. His alliances shifted as he joined Antigonus in rebellion against Perdiccas and Eumenes, marrying Antipater's daughter Phila and fathering a son named Craterus. Tragically, his life was cut short in Asia Minor during the battle of the Hellespont in three hundred twenty-one BC, when a charging horse fell upon him, marking the end of a remarkable military career.