Anapus River - 415 BC

Athenian vs Syracusan

Historical Background
In 415 BC Athens and Sparta were still under the Peace of Nicias, when the Sicilian city of Segesta requested help from Athens in their war against Selinus. Some Athenians saw this as an opportunity to take over all of Sicily, Syracuse, and even Carthage. Against his wishes, Nicias was elected general to lead the Sicilian Expedition. The Athenians used a double agent to trick the Syracusan army into marching to Catana, and when they took the bait, landed unopposed south of the Anapus River. There they took up a strong defensive position. When the Syracusans returned and found the Athenians waiting, they made camp for the night, intending to fight the next day. The Athenians, in a surprise move, attacked at dawn across the river. The unprepared Syracusan soldiers formed up as best they could in the short time before the Athenian force made contact. The Athenians used the river to guard their left as they advanced, and placed their light troops on the wings to fight off the Syracusan cavalry. Despite the greater depth of the Syracusan phalanx, the superior discipline and experience of the Athenians carried the day. However, they could not undertake an aggressive pursuit and score a decisive victory due to the lack of cavalry. It was a tactical victory without a strategic result. The Athenians sailed back to Catana for the winter, while the Syracusans prepared for a siege and sent to Corinth and Sparta for help.
The stage is set. The battle lines are drawn and you are in command. Can you change history?

War Council

Athenian Army (Use Greek light blue blocks)
• Leader: Nicias
• 6 Command Cards
• Move First

Syracusan Army (Use orange blocks)
• Leader: Hermocrates
• 4 Command Cards

Victory
6 Banners

Special Rules
• A Syracusan unit that occupies an Athenian camp hex at the start of the Syracusan player’s turn may remove the camp hex and gain one Victory Banner.

• The Hoplite Infantry rule is in effect.

• The entire Anapus River is fordable.