Politics > Harmost

Harmost

A "harmost" (Greek: ἁρμοστής, harmostēs) was a Spartan-appointed military governor or overseer assigned to control and administer a city or region outside of Sparta, especially in territories conquered or influenced by Sparta. The institution of the harmostate was particularly significant during the period of Spartan hegemony in Greece, especially in the 5th and 4th centuries BCE. Here is a detailed exploration of the role and significance of harmosts:

Definition and Role

Harmost: The term "harmost" derives from the Greek verb "harmozo," meaning "to fit together" or "to arrange." A harmost was essentially a Spartan official sent to maintain order, oversee governance, and enforce Spartan policies in subject or allied territories.
Military Governor: Primarily, harmosts acted as military governors, ensuring that the local population remained loyal to Sparta and that any resistance or rebellion was swiftly dealt with.

Functions and Responsibilities

Military Control: Harmosts commanded garrisons of Spartan soldiers stationed in the controlled cities or regions. They were responsible for maintaining military discipline and readiness.
Administrative Duties: Beyond military responsibilities, harmosts often had administrative roles. They might oversee local governments, ensure the implementation of Spartan laws, and manage local resources.
Political Influence: Harmosts played a crucial role in influencing the political landscape of the regions they controlled. They often supported pro-Spartan factions and suppressed opposition groups to maintain Spartan dominance.
Economic Oversight: In some cases, harmosts were involved in managing the economic affairs of the territories, including the collection of taxes and tributes that were sent back to Sparta.

Historical Context and Examples

Peloponnesian War: The use of harmosts became particularly prominent after the Peloponnesian War (431-404 BCE), when Sparta emerged as the leading power in Greece. Spartan harmosts were installed in various cities to secure Spartan control and influence.
Decarchies: In some cases, harmosts worked alongside decarchies (councils of ten pro-Spartan officials) that were established in conquered cities to govern them according to Spartan interests.
Criticism and Resistance: The presence of harmosts was often resented by local populations, who saw them as symbols of Spartan oppression. There were instances of revolts and resistance against harmosts, reflecting the tensions and dissatisfaction with Spartan rule.

Notable Harmosts

Lysander: One of the most famous Spartan harmosts, Lysander played a key role in establishing Spartan dominance in the Aegean region. After his victories in the Peloponnesian War, he installed harmosts and decarchies in various cities to secure Spartan control.
Pharnabazus and Dercylidas: During the Persian Wars, harmosts like Pharnabazus and Dercylidas were involved in managing Spartan interests in Asia Minor, negotiating with Persian satraps and overseeing military campaigns.

Decline and Legacy

Theban Hegemony: The decline of Spartan power after the Battle of Leuctra in 371 BCE and the rise of Theban hegemony led to the reduction in the use of harmosts. The defeat weakened Spartan influence, and many of the cities and regions formerly controlled by harmosts regained their independence.
Historical Impact: The institution of the harmostate illustrates the methods used by Sparta to maintain and expand its influence during its period of hegemony. It reflects the militaristic and authoritarian aspects of Spartan governance and their efforts to impose control over other Greek city-states.

In summary, a harmost was a Spartan-appointed military governor responsible for maintaining control and enforcing Spartan policies in subject or allied territories. The role was significant during the period of Spartan dominance in Greece, particularly after the Peloponnesian War. The presence of harmosts often led to local resentment and resistance, highlighting the challenges of maintaining an empire through military oversight and authoritarian governance.

Sources

Polybius 4.27.

Xenophon De Rep. Lac. C. 14

Thucydides 4.53