Plutarch's Lives, Vol. 1

There are few stories about Nicias’s early life, though he was one of the important generals and statesmen of his time. Nicias comes from a wealthy family and owns silver mines, and he considers his wealth to be his best asset. He uses his money to sponsor public events, especially religious events.

Following the death of Pericles, the Athenian aristocracy push to have Nicias in a prominent place in the government, thinking that he will be able to check the populist politician Cleon. Nicias’s timidity proves a serious impediment to his political career. On the other hand, Nicias’s unassuming nature and his piety make him popular.

Nicias is a skilled military commander. He is generally successful in large part because he is very cautious. After the death of Cleon, Nicias works hard to make peace with the Spartans. The resultant treaty, known as the “Peace of Nicias,” makes him even more popular. However, some Athenians, especially Alcibiades, want to break the peace so that they can gain glory and fame by proving themselves in war. This leads to fighting in Athens, with a peace party rallying around Nicias while a war party rallies around Alcibiades. Nicias and Alcibiades each hope to get the other banished.