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750 BCE
Homer
Homer was a respected greek poet that impacted modern history and literature. He was the author of two epic poems that convey bravery and courage. The Iliad was a story about the Trojan War. Along with heroes such as Achilles, and Odysseus, the story also incorporated Greek Mythology. The Odyssey was poem that occurred after the Trojan war, and focused on Odysseus’s ten year journey home. He overcame obstacles cast by the gods above to return home. Homer and his poems are still studied today. -
490 BCE
Battle of Marathon
Located in northeastern Attica, this battle marked a victory for the Greeks in the Persian wars for their strategic battle tactics. They created a phalanx formation, which was new to combat history. This formation consisted of many soldiers fighting with long spear like sticks side by side. After the victory of the Greeks, a messenger ran 25 miles to deliver the message. -
480 BCE
Battle of Salamis
This naval battle occurred between to long lasting rival, the Greeks and the Persians. Even though the Greeks were outnumbered, their battle tactics led them to victory. The Greek ships led the large Persian fleets into narrow waters. With the design of their ships, the Greeks were able to sink or overthrow Persian ships that were stuck in the narrow waters. This led the Greeks to destroy one third of the Persian ships. The Battle of Salamis claimed their victory in the Persian Wars. -
Period: 480 BCE to 404 BCE
The Golden Age
After the Persian wars, Athens entered a blissful period known as the Golden Age. Athens became wealthy and powerful once they became the leader of the Delian League. During this time, they were rose to lead the Greek city states. Under the democratic leadership of Pericles, the people were able to enjoy the arts composed of literature, poetry, and pottery. -
Period: 460 BCE to 404 BCE
Thucydides
Thucydides was the greatest historian that recorded the Peloponnesian Wars between Athens and Sparta. Most known about the Peloponnesian Wars were found in his book, called History of the Peloponnesian Wars. He was also significant in Greek military, as he was appointed as military magistrate. Overall, he was an important Athenian that holds significance in the Greek and modern history. -
Period: 449 BCE to 404 BCE
Athens
Athens emerged as one of the most powerful city states of Greece after the Persian wars.They were head of the Delian League, an alliance between city states for military defense. Athens also made the first democracy that lasted for 100 years. It was named after Athena, their patron goddess.The Peloponnesian Wars began due to the constant disputes between Athens and Sparta, a powerful city state with militaristic values. Despite the years that have passed, they are famous in history today. -
Period: 404 BCE to 371 BCE
Sparta
Sparta was famous as the city who valued military strength and education. At the age of seven, boys lived in barracks called the Agoge. This military system enforced duty, discipline, and endurance to their soldiers. Women in Sparta had freedom, since their husbands were in the military. They owned property and receive an education, a scarce privilege. Their slaves completed household tasks or accompanied their masters to war. Sparta had an oligarchy government, where two kings ruled. -
Period: 336 BCE to 323 BCE
Alexander the Great
Alexander the Great started his reign in 336 B.C. He inherited Macedonia and his father’s goals to conquer the Persians. The young military commander led his men to conquer their neighbors with his new military weapons, and won many battles. After he defeated the Persians, he took over Egypt, and India. His large empire crumbled not soon after due to his young death at 33 in 232 B.C., and it was divided among three of his generals. He is still respected because of his military accomplishments.
