Cleon rose to prominence in Athens after the death of Pericles. He was often criticized by contemporaries like Thucydides and Aristophanes as a demagogue.
He advocated for a harsh policy against revolting allies and an offensive war against Sparta. He achieved a surprising victory at Sphacteria, capturing hundreds of Spartans.
He was killed in battle at Amphipolis against the Spartan general Brasidas.