ABSTRACT
So far, the reasons offered for regarding the characteristics which distinguish the Cretan from other Leagues of the period as arising from the traditional influences of an archaic tribal confederation have been hypothetical. There is, however, one piece of contemporary factual evidence which supports the argument. In the decree of the Epidamnians of 207/6 B.C. the Magnesians are praised for their help in putting an end to what is termed 'innertribal warfare' in Crete. 4
The war of 343 B.C. was a prelude and portent of that chronic warfare which continued to ravage the cities, and which makes
In 343B.c.lthe Knossians called upon the services of the Phocian mercenary Phalaikos and took Lyttos by assault. Phalaikos and his mercenaries were defeated with the aid of the Spartan Archidamos who restored to the Lyttians their native land. Phalaikos himself was subsequently killed in the attempted siege of Kydonia.2
