Navarch (c. 360 – 301 BC)
Born in Crete around 360 BC, Nearchus is known for being Alexander the Great’s navarch, mentor, and one of his closest allies.
Before becoming a navarch, Nearchus took part in Alexander the Great’s campaigns in Greece, the war against the Persian Empire and the subsequent Indian campaign. He was appointed general of Alexander’s aides and fought in all the battles in Asia against the Persian Empire. In 332 BC he was appointed satrap of Lycia, where he remained for 5 years, successfully establishing the Greek governance. Following his rule in Lycia, he fought in all battles during the campaign in India, with Alexander distinguishing him for his leadership and courage.
Nearchus was appointed navarch of a massive expedition in 326 BC. He began his journey with 1800 ships from the Hydaspes river and sailed through the Indus River. Then, with 2000 ships, he set sail for the Persian Golf, sailing along the coast on a mission to explore the lands and cities, document the areas, and create maps. His documents, although lost, are still available through Arrianos’s Indica, a detailed account of his exploration of the Asian south which provided an entirely new view of the continent. The entire journey is estimated to be 650 nautical miles.
Following his contribution to the liberation, establishment and expansion of the Greek state to Asia, he was awarded the highest honor among all others by Alexander the Great. After Alexander’s death, he ruled as satrap of Lycia and Pamphilia, taking part in numerous other battles for the perpetuation of the Greek state.
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