Pages: 85-96

The article discusses institutionalization of power in Bosporus based on lapidary and ceramic epigraphy, as well as on the Bosporan numismatics. The aim of the work is to identify the Hellenic and local traditions for the introduction of new institutions of power, a sequence of changes in the titles of the Bosporan rulers and some probable reasons for these changes. The study clarifies the ratio of the data from narrative Greek sources and documents of local origin. It is concluded that a new and quite effective form of ancient statehood appeared in the world since Leukon I time: it was a successful combination of Classical (tyranny and democracy) and barbaric (monarchy) political traditions, which ensured durability of this state system.

Keywords: Bosporus, Pontus, Spartocids, 4th—2nd centuries BC, title, archon, king, tyrant, institutions of power, title, political system

Information about authors:

Evgeni Molev (Nizhny Novgorod, Russian Federation). Doctor of Historical Sciences. N. I. Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod. Gagarin Ave., 23, Nizhny Novgorod, 603022, Russian Federation
E-mail: [email protected]
Darja Sidneva (Nizhny Novgorod, Russian Federation). N. I. Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod. Gagarin Ave., 23, Nizhny Novgorod, 603022, Russian Federation
E-mail: [email protected]