Philopoemen (fĭləpē`mən), c.252–183 B.C., Greek statesman and general, b. Megalopolis. For years he fought as a mercenary in Crete. In 209 he became commander of the Achaean cavalry, with which he defeated the Aetolians and Eleans. He next became (208) general of the Achaean League Achaean League (əkē`ən), confederation of cities on the Gulf of Corinth.
..... Click the link for more information. . He defeated Machanidas, tyrant of Sparta, at Mantinea. Nabis, successor of Machanidas, was driven out of Messene and was defeated (201–200) in Laconia by Philopoemen. When Nabis was assassinated, the Spartans were incorporated (192) into the Achaean League, but revolted and were again conquered (188) by Philopoemen. He was captured and poisoned by Messenian rebels. Philopoemen was glorified by his compatriot, the historian Polybius Polybius (pōlĭ`bēəs), 203? B.C.–c.120 B.C., Greek historian, b. Megalopolis.
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Philopoemen

(born c. 253, Megalopolis, Arcadia—died 182 BC, Messene, Messenia) General of the Achaean League. Elected federal cavalry commander (c. 210) and general of the league (208–207, 206–205, 201–200), he won victories against the Aetolians and the Spartans, using Macedonian armour and tactics. In his fourth generalship (193–192) he failed against the Spartans by sea but crushed their army on land. The Roman Flamininus stopped his capture of Sparta, but when the Spartan leader was assassinated Philopoemen added that state to the confederation. He was captured when Messene rebelled and given poison.