Gaius Avidius Cassius vs Phocion

Gaius Avidius Cassius, as governor of Syria, was dispatched to Egypt to suppress the Bucolic revolt. He defeated the rebel forces, restoring Roman authority and securing the grain supply for Rome.

Upon hearing a false report of Marcus Aurelius's death, Avidius Cassius was proclaimed emperor by his legions in Syria. He accepted the title and took control of the eastern provinces, including Egypt, initiating a brief rebellion.

After a reign of three months, Avidius Cassius was assassinated by a centurion. His death ended the rebellion, and the Senate condemned his memory. Marcus Aurelius, however, spared Cassius's family and destroyed his correspondence to avoid further conflict.

Phocion consistently argued against war with Macedon, advocating for peace and cooperation with Philip II and Alexander the Great. He opposed Demosthenes's war policies, believing Athens was too weak to resist Macedonian power. This stance made him unpopular with the democratic faction.

Phocion led the Athenian resistance against the Macedonian general Antipater during the Lamian War. After the Athenian defeat at Crannon, he negotiated a peace treaty that imposed a Macedonian garrison and oligarchic government. Phocion was appointed as the head of the new government.

After the death of Antipater, the Athenian democracy was restored under Polyperchon. Phocion was recalled from exile, put on trial for treason, and condemned to death. He was forced to drink hemlock. His execution was later regretted by the Athenians, who gave him a public funeral.