It is certain that when Leosthenes is first the subject of distinct mention, he was an officer of acknowledged ability and established reputation in war, but a proponent of Greek freedom and vehement opponent of Macedonian rule.
[4] As soon as the news of Alexander's death reached Athens, Leosthenes was despatched to Taenarus to engage the services of these 8,000 troops.
However, lacking battering machines or engineers,[6] his assaults were repulsed and he was compelled to resort to the slower method of a blockade.
While he was engaged in forming the lines of circumvallation, the besieged made a vigorous sally, during which Leosthenes received a blow on the head from a stone and died three days later.
"[8] It is considered that Leosthenes did demonstrate that he had great energy and ability during the short period of his command and his loss was mourned by the Athenians as a public calamity.