Dionysius The Elder, also known as Dionysius I, was a tyrant of the Greek city-state of Syracuse in the 4th century BC. Some synonyms that can be used to refer to him include Dionysios, Dionysus, and Dionysios the Tyrant. He was also referred to as "the Great" due to his military successes and leadership skills. Additionally, he was called "the Elder" to distinguish him from his grandson, Dionysius II, who also became a tyrant of Syracuse. Although he was a harsh ruler, Dionysius the Elder is remembered for his accomplishments in developing Syracuse as a major political and cultural center in the ancient world.