Pausanias the Spartan vs Xie Xuan

Pausanias, as regent of Sparta, commanded the combined Greek forces at Plataea. He led the decisive victory over the Persian army under Mardonius, ending the second Persian invasion of Greece. The victory secured Greek independence.

Pausanias led a Greek fleet to capture Byzantium from the Persians. During this campaign, his arrogant behavior and alleged sympathy for Persian customs alienated the allies, leading to the transfer of leadership to Athens.

Pausanias was recalled to Sparta and tried for medism (collaboration with Persia). Although acquitted, his reputation was damaged. He returned to Byzantium without Spartan authorization, acting as a private individual.

Pausanias, suspected of plotting with the helots and Persians, took refuge in the Temple of Athena of the Brazen House in Sparta. The ephors walled him inside, and he was starved to death, ending his life in disgrace.

Xie Xuan commanded the Eastern Jin army against the massive Former Qin invasion led by Fu Jian. Using a feigned retreat and surprise attack, his forces routed the Qin army, securing the survival of the Eastern Jin dynasty and preventing northern conquest of the south.

Following the victory at Fei River, Xie Xuan led campaigns to recover territories in the north. He recaptured several cities and provinces, expanding Eastern Jin control into the Central Plains.

Xie Xuan died of illness at age 45, cutting short his military career. His death was a loss to the Eastern Jin, which faced continued threats from northern states.