EUBULUS

flourished 4th century BC Athenian statesman noted for his able financial administration. Eubulus first became prominent in 355 and from then until 346 he was the most influential politician in Athens. As chief commissioner of the Theoric Fund, which provided free seats at public spectacles, he exercised control over Athenian finances, since commissioners of the fund were granted power in other departments of finance. His astute supervision of state expenditure restored the economic position of Athens without increasing the burden of taxation. Under his guidance the efficiency of the fleet was improved and docks and fortifications repaired. Because this financial policy was based on the assumption that Athens should not be involved in major wars, Eubulus maintained a pacific attitude toward Philip II of Macedonia but was bitterly opposed by the anti-Macedonian politician Demosthenes. Eubulus was largely responsible for the overtures to Philip that led to the Peace of Philocrates in 346; with this treaty his political ascendancy ended.