Aratus of Sicyon (271–213 BC)

Greek soldier and politician. He was instrumental in the growth of the Achaean League, the political and military confederation of Greek cities, and prevented its disintegration under pressure from Macedonia and Sparta 224 BC.

Aratus was born at Sicyon. His father was put to death by the tyrant Abantidas 266, and he was brought up at Argos. At the age of 20 he freed Sicyon and brought that city into the Achaean League, whose general he became 245.