Iphicrates vs Yeon Gaesomun

Iphicrates led his reformed peltasts to a decisive victory over a Spartan hoplite regiment at Lechaeum near Corinth. The Spartans were annihilated, demonstrating the effectiveness of light infantry against heavy infantry. This was a major blow to Spartan military prestige.

Iphicrates reorganized and reequipped the Athenian light infantry (peltasts). He introduced longer spears, lighter shields, and better training. These reforms made the peltasts more effective in battle, capable of engaging heavier hoplites.

Iphicrates served as a mercenary commander for the Thracian king Cotys I. He married Cotys's daughter and helped expand Thracian power. This period demonstrated his skills as a commander outside the Athenian sphere.

Iphicrates was appointed as a commander in the Social War against rebellious Athenian allies. After a failed engagement at Embata, he was prosecuted alongside Timotheus. He was acquitted but his career was effectively ended.

Yeon Gaesomun led a military coup, killing King Yeongnyu and hundreds of nobles. He installed King Bojang as a puppet ruler and assumed the position of Dae Mangniji (Supreme Commander), establishing a military dictatorship over Goguryeo.

Yeon Gaesomun refused to submit to Tang Chinese demands for tribute and recognition, asserting Goguryeo's sovereignty. His aggressive stance led to multiple Tang invasions and a prolonged war that drained both empires.

Yeon Gaesomun led the defense of Ansi Fortress against a massive Tang Chinese invasion led by Emperor Taizong. The Goguryeo forces held out for months, inflicting heavy casualties and forcing the Tang army to retreat, preserving Goguryeo's independence.

Yeon Gaesomun died, leading to a power struggle among his sons. This internal division weakened Goguryeo, allowing the Tang-Silla alliance to conquer the kingdom in 668, ending its 700-year history.