Cleophon

Greek statesman
verifiedCite
While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.
Select Citation Style
Share
Share to social media
URL
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Cleophon
Feedback
Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login).
Thank you for your feedback

Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

Quick Facts
Died:
404 bc

Cleophon (died 404 bc) was an Athenian statesman, one of the dominant figures in Athenian politics until the end of the Peloponnesian War, who came to power in 410. He led the people to reject Spartan peace offers after the Athenian victory at Cyzicus (410) and again after Arginusae (406), as his political predecessor Cleon had rejected similar offers in 425. Even after the decisive defeat of the Athenians at Aegospotami, when the Spartans blockaded Athens, Cleophon continued to urge resistance, but the situation became desperate and he was arrested and condemned to death.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Encyclopaedia Britannica.