Cleitus the Ilyrian
king of the Dardanian state
Years: 375BCE - 328BCE
Cleitus (ruled c. 335 – 295 BCE) is an Illyrian king of the Dardanian State attested in 335 BCE.
Cleitus is the son of Bardyllis and the father of Bardyllis II.
Cleitus is the mastermind behind the well structured Illyrian Revolt of 335 BCE.
Cleitus enters into an agreement with the Taulantii State under Glaucias and the Autariatae State under Pleurias.
Cleitus has captured and garrisoned the city of Pelion and waits for Glaucias's troops to arrive.
However Alexander manages to arrive on the scene first and blockades Cleitus within the city walls.
Glaucias comes to Cletius's aid and the Macedonians are forced to retreat.
Alexander returns with more equipment and supplies.
He uses skillful war tactics to drive Glaucis's army from the surrounding heights and prevents Cleitus from engaging with Glaucias.
After a three day truce Alexander finds the Taulantii camp unguarded and under the cover of night eliminates the Illyrians.
Cletius manages to escape and keeps his throne, probably as a vassal under the Macedonian Kingdom.
