By place Greece •
Athens responds to
appeals from its general,
Nicias, by sending out 73 vessels to
Sicily under the command of
Demosthenes to assist Nicias and his forces with the
siege of Syracuse. • The Athenian army moves to capture Syracuse while the larger fleet of Athenian ships blocks the approach to the city from the sea. After some initial success, the Athenian troops become disorganised in the chaotic night operation and are thoroughly routed by
Gylippus, the
Spartan commander. The Athenian commander
Lamachus is killed. Nicias, although ill, is left in sole charge of the siege of Syracuse.
By topic Drama •
Aristophanes' play
The Birds is performed. == Births ==