Nikias was (470 BC-413 BC) was an Athenian aristocrat and statesmen. He had been instrumental in bringing a temporary halt to the Peloponnesian War in 421 BC. A few years later, rising politician Alcibiades helped restart the war, despite Nikias' opposition. Eventually, the two became unlikely allies, and Nikias helped Alkibiades raise the Sicilian Expedition, although both found each other distasteful. The Athenian siege of Syracuse was nearly successful until the arrival of the Spartan general Gylippus, who turned the situation around so that the Athenians were themselves under siege. Nikias led his forces in a desperate attempt to escape by land. However, they were cut off and he and his Athenian army were overwhelmed and defeated. Subsequently, Nikias was executed.