Craterus facts for kids

In 321 BC, Craterus was killed in a battle where Eumenes defeated Neoptolemus. This happened during the Wars of the Diadochi.

Craterus (born around 370 BC, died 321 BC) was a brave general from ancient Macedonia. He served under the famous Alexander the Great and was one of his most loyal supporters. After Alexander's death, Craterus became one of the "Diadochi," which means "successors." These were generals who took over parts of Alexander's huge empire.

Craterus: A Key General for Alexander the Great

Craterus came from a noble family in Macedonia. His father was also named Alexander, and his brother, Amphoterus, was an admiral. Craterus was a very important leader in Alexander's army.

Leading the Infantry

Craterus was known for his skill in commanding soldiers.

• In 333 BC, at the Battle of Issus, he led the phalanx (a group of soldiers with long spears) and all the foot soldiers on the left side of the army.
• He also led his own mission against a group called the Tapurians in a region called Hyrcania. This was his first time leading a large part of the army by himself.
• At the Battle of the Hydaspes in 326 BC, Craterus commanded the soldiers who stayed on the other side of the river. They crossed over to join the fight only when the battle was almost over.

Life After Alexander's Conquests

Craterus was a trusted friend and general to Alexander.

Marriage and New Orders

At a big celebration in Susa, Craterus married Princess Amastris. She was the daughter of Oxyathres, who was the brother of the Persian King Darius III.

In 324 BC, Craterus was given a new important job. He and another general, Polyperchon, were chosen to lead about 11,500 experienced soldiers back to Macedonia. Their mission was to replace Antipater, who was the governor there. Antipater was then supposed to bring new soldiers to Alexander in the east.

Challenges and Alexander's Death

Craterus's journey back to Macedonia was delayed. He had trouble finding enough ships to transport his soldiers across the sea. While he was in a place called Cilicia, building his fleet, Alexander the Great suddenly died in Babylon.

Craterus had about 10,000 veteran soldiers with him at this time. If Craterus couldn't govern Macedonia because of his health, Polyperchon was supposed to take over.

Joining the Lamian War

Craterus eventually sailed to Europe. He joined Antipater, who needed help in a conflict known as the Lamian War. Craterus helped Antipater, but Antipater remained the main commander. Craterus led troops in the Battle of Crannon in August 322 BC.

Later, Craterus joined forces with Antipater and Ptolemy when another general, Antigonus, rebelled. Craterus also married Antipater's daughter, Phila. They had a son, who was also named Craterus.

Death of a General

Craterus died in battle in Asia Minor in 321 BC. He was fighting against another general named Eumenes near the Hellespont. His horse fell on him during a charge, and he was killed.

In popular media

• Named with the phonetically accurate spelling of Krateros, Craterus is one of the minor characters in the historical novel Roxana Romance by A.J. Cave.
• Also named as Krateros, Craterus is a major character in the two Alexander novels by Mary Renault, The Persian Boy and Fire From Heaven.
• In the film Alexander, he is played by British actor Rory McCann.