Dion (Tyrant of Syracuse)

Dion (/ˈdaɪɒn, ən/; Greek: ὁ Συρακόσιος; 408–354 BC), tyrant of Syracuse in Sicily, was the son of Hipparinus, and brother-in-law of Dionysius I of Syracuse. A disciple of Plato, he became Dionysius I's most trusted minister and adviser. However, his great wealth, his belief in Platonism and his ambition aroused the suspicions of Dionysius' son and successor, Dionysius II. An indiscreet letter from Dion to the Carthaginians led to his banishment. Settling in Athens, he lived a prosperous life until Dionysius dispossessed him of his estates and income. Landing in Sicily in 357 BC, he was successful in conquering Syracuse (other than the citadel). However, Dion soon quarrelled with the radical leader Heraclides and was forced into exile. Recalled in 355 BC, he became master of the whole city but his imperious behaviour and financial demands on the people of Syracuse soon alienated the population. His supporters abandoned him and he was assassinated. His attempts to liberate Sicily only brought political and social chaos to the island which would last for nearly 20 years.

Dion was the son of the Syracusan statesman Hipparinus, who had served with Dionysius I in the Syracusan army. Hipparinus' other children were Megacles and Aristomache. Aristomache married Dionysius I, who also married the Locrian Doris at the same time. Although Dion's sister was popular with her fellow Syracusans, it was Doris who gave birth to Dionysius' heir (Dionysius II).

Aristomache had four children. Of these children, Sophrosyne married the younger Dionysius and Arete married Dion (with their son being called Hipparinus).

As a trusted advisor to Dionysius, Dion was given the most important diplomatic assignments. According to Plutarch, Dion excelled in managing the embassies that dealt with Carthage. Dionysius was so satisfied with Dion's role as advisor that eventually Dion was authorized to withdraw money from the Syracusan treasury. The tyrant demanded, however, to be informed daily when he did so. Despite this requirement, Dion became extremely rich and his residence was magnificently furnished. Nonetheless, Plutarch says that Dion occasionally criticized Dionysius.

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