To discuss the career of Alcibiades and its influence on the Athenian politics, it should first be mentioned that the institutionalization of the diplomatic relations in Greece began only in the Hellenistic era. In this regard, Sparta of the classical era was more advanced. In the rest of the policies, diplomacy was at the time largely based on the relations of aristocratic figures. Hence, such relations were required of the anyone who was involved in the diplomatic activities.
Taking this into consideration, it can be stated that the career of Alcibiades is a notable example of this tendency. His background provided him with numerous opportunities to establish personal connections, as his family belonged to the most influential aristocratic families at the time. In addition, it was connected to Sparta through the institution of proxeny. Foreign relations of Alcibiades’ family were also numerous and extensive; he maintained personal connections with several Peloponnesian cities. Because of these relations, Alcibiades had supporters in Miletus, an Ionian city of great significance. It is known that through the course of Alcibiades’ political activity, Athens and Sparta were involved in the Peloponnesian War (Thucydides, line 93). However, this fact did not prevent Alcibiades from maintaining similar xenic connections with the aristocrats of Sparta. Because of that, he was accused of his decisions on many occasions (Thucydides, line 28). For example, determined to establish strong relations with influential military officers, he offered to change the Athenian constitution.
During his political activity, Alcibiades had managed to establish alliances with almost all Greek policies, as well as neighbouring states. These connections did not necessarily serve Athenians at all times as much as they served Alcibiades’ own interests (Thucydides, line 92). Regardless of what his position was and which side he represented, these relations were strong. For example, his reliance on them allowed Alcibiades to achieve the separation of some important Ionian policies from the Athenian Arche.
Reference
Thucydides. (1972). History of the Peloponnesian War. Penguin Books.