Artemisia I (l. 480 BCE) was the queen of Caria who fought for the Persians in their invasion of Greece in 480 BCE.

Why is Artemisia I famous?

Artemisia I is famous for the role she played in the Persian King Xerxes I's invasion of Greece, especially her part in the Battle of Salamis.

Was Artemisia I a pirate?

Artemisia I was not a pirate, she was the queen of Caria, but ancient writers often confused her with another Anatolian queen known as Artemisia II.

How did Artemisia I die?

Artemisia I's death is unrecorded. No one knows how she died but, according to legend, she killed herself after being rejected by a lover. This version of her death is not accepted by any reputable historian.

Artemisia I of Caria

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Definition

Artemisia I of Caria (l. 480 BCE) was the queen of the Anatolian region of Caria (south of ancient Lydia, in modern-day Turkey). She is most famous for her role in the naval Battle of Salamis in 480 BCE in which she fought for the Persians.

More about: Artemisia I of Caria

Timeline

485 BCE - 465 BCE
Reign of Xerxes I (the Great) of Persia.
480 BCE
Artemisia of Caria participates in the Persian Expedition of Xerxes.
480 BCE
Artemisia distinguishes herself in naval battles of Artemisium and Salamis.
Aug 480 BCE
The indecisive battle of Artemision between the Greek and Persian fleets of Xerxes I. The Greeks withdraw to Salamis.
Sep 480 BCE
Battle of Salamis where the Greek naval fleet led by Themistocles defeats the invading armada of Xerxes I of Persia.
479 BCE
Xerxes' Persian forces are defeated by Greek forces at Plataea effectively ending Persia's imperial ambitions in Greece.