Xenophon of Athens was a Greek military leader, philosopher, economist, and historian. He became prominent when, at age 30, he was elected as one of the leaders of the Ten Thousand, a group of Greek mercenaries who were retreating after their involvement in Cyrus the Younger's failed attempt to seize control of the Achaemenid Empire. His leadership during this retreat became a defining moment in his life and established his reputation as a military commander. Xenophon's writings and ideas influenced both military strategy and philosophical thought in the ancient world. His experiences and observations were documented in works that would be studied for centuries to come. Military historians have recognized his exceptional abilities, with some noting the lasting impact of his strategic genius.