C 2S0 ^ 
XII. On the Solar Eclipse which is said to have been predicted by 
Thales. By Francis Baily, Esq. Communicated by H. Davy, 
Esq. Sec. R. S. 
Read March 14, 1811. 
1 here is probably no fact in ancient history that has given 
rise to so many discussions, and to such a variety of opinions, 
as the solar eclipse, which (according to Herodotus) is said 
to have been predicted by Thales ; and which, owing to a 
very singular coincidence, put an end to a furious war that 
raged between Cyaxares king of Media, and Alyattes king of 
Lydia. 
According to the account given by that celebrated historian, 
“ the contest had continued during five years, with alternate 
“ advantages to each party : in the sixth, there was a sort of 
“ nocturnal combat. For, after an equal fortune on both sides, 
£< and whilst the two armies were engaging, the day suddenly 
“ became night. Thales, the Milesian, had predicted this phe- 
“ nomenon to the lonians : and had ascertained the time of 
“ the year in which it would happen. The Lydians and the 
“ Medes, seeing that the night had thus taken the place of the 
44 day, desisted from the combat ; and both parties became 
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