ABSTRACT
In 278 Pyrrhus decided to shift his campaign to Sicily and establish himself in Syracuse, which had been suffering from internal political turmoil since the death of Agathocles. This decision was a logical extension of his campaign in southern Italy, which had long been closely tied to Sicily. Upon his arrival many Greek cities joined Pyrrhus and he began to organize a campaign against the Carthaginian-controlled areas of the island, which was launched the following year. His efforts proved effective, pushing the Carthaginians, who pursued a defensive strategy, back to Lilybaeum. Building upon his success Pyrrhus instituted changes meant to strengthen his direct control of Syracuse, including minting coins with his iconography and replacing local leaders with his own men. Unlike previous Syracusan leaders Pyrrhus lacked strong support from any of the political factions of the city, forcing him to rely on the voluntary support of his allies. When some Syracusans began resisting his efforts, with Carthaginian support, Pyrrhus’ Sicilian alliances fragmented. In 276, he returned to Italy with little to show for his time.
