Pericles (493-429 BC), ancient Greek. Pericles was ruler of Athens for over 30 years, at the city's height, and known for his great oratory skills and fastidious honesty. He was a supporter of arts and academics, and personally oversaw the construction of the Parthenon. The period during which he led Athens, roughly from 461 to 429 BC, is sometimes known as the "Age of Pericles". Pericles is seen as responsible for engaging in the war with Sparta that would ultimately lead to the downfall of Athens. In the midst of war, the Athenians were devastated by a plague, from which, at the age of 65, Pericles died.