Historical Background
Just after the conclusion of the Peace, Philip II of Macedon passed Thermopylae, and subdued Phocis, which was not helped by Athens. Supported by Thebes and Thessaly, Macedon took control of Phocis' votes in the Amphictyonic League.
The Athenians had not been present at the council meeting that had voted for Philip's election into the council. However, Philip thought it proper to send letters to the states that had not been present, inviting them to assemble at Delphi so that they could ratify his election. Athens, among others, received the invitation. The invitation raised much ferment in the Athenian assembly, with many members indignant and opposed to Philips' election into the council. Yet, despite some strong and continuing opposition, Athens finally legitimised Philip's entrance into the Council of the League. Demosthenes was among those who recommended this stance in his oration On the Peace.
Read more about this topic: On The Peace
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