Persian Success, 344–342
Artaxerxes finally succeeded in reconquering Egypt in 343/2. He benefited from information provided by Mentor of Rhodes, Nectanebo's mercenary commander, who defected to Artaxerxes at Sidon in 345. As a result of this, Artaxerxes adopted very precise tactical arrangements aimed at addressing Egyptian defenses in very specific ways. This involved the use of a three-tiered approach aimed at gaining entry through Pelusium while separate units (with juxtaposed Persian and Greek contingents) moved further south to cross Egypt's easternmost defensive perimeter. It worked, and within a matter of days after the arrival of the Persian expeditionary force, Artaxerxes took control of the Delta, chasing Nectanebo far to the south, perhaps into Nubia. Wholesale destruction of Egyptian fortifications, temples, and dynastic centers followed. Finally, Artaxerxes restored satrapal government after a sixty-year lapse.
Keywords: Artaxerxes III, Mentor, Bagoas, Nectanebo II, Pelusium, Memphis, Persian conquest
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