Gadatas

Gadatas (Ancient Greek: Γαδάτας) was an Assyrian satrap who, according to Xenophon's Cyropaedia, defected to Cyrus the Great. His defection was motivated by a desire for revenge, the Assyrian king had made him a eunuch because one of the king's concubines had shown romantic interest in him, owing to his good looks.^[1][2]

Gadatas helped Cyrus by secretly handing over a strategically important fortress. In response, the Assyrian king invaded Gadatas province. However, Cyrus quickly came to his aid and rescued him and his troops just in time.^[1][2]

Fearing further retaliation from the Assyrians, Gadatas abandoned his province and fully joined Cyrus's army. His familiarity with the region made him a valuable asset.^[1][2]

Later, during the capture of Babylon, Gadatas, along with Gobryas, killed the Assyrian king.^[1][2]

John Tzetzes also wrote the story of Gadatas.^[3]