The March Up Country

The March Up Country is a historical account written by the ancient Greek historian and soldier Xenophon. The book tells the story of the march of the Ten Thousand a group of Greek mercenaries who were hired by Cyrus the Younger to overthrow his brother Artaxerxes II and claim the Persian throne for himself. The march began in 401 BCE and Xenophon who was one of the leaders of the Greek forces recorded their journey in great detail. The march was fraught with danger and hardship as the Greeks encountered hostile terrain harsh weather conditions and fierce resistance from the Persian army. Despite these challenges the Greeks were able to make their way through the heart of the Persian Empire covering over 1000 miles of difficult terrain. Along the way they faced numerous battles and skirmishes as well as challenges from within their own ranks. Xenophons account of the march is notable for its vivid descriptions of the landscape the people and the events that the Greeks encountered on their journey. He also provides insights into the military tactics and strategies employed by the Greeks as well as their attitudes towards their Persian foes. The March Up Country is considered a classic of ancient Greek literature and is admired for its historical accuracy its narrative power and its insights into the military and political realities of the time. It has also been praised for its timeless themes of courage endurance and the human spirit in the face of adversity.