The Classical Age, 479-336 BCE

Greece begins its classical period

479 BCE

During this period, remarkable accomplishments in art, architecture, literature, philosophy, and democracy in Athens occurred.

The Delian League is created

477 BCE

Maritime poleis on the coasts and islands of the Aegean form a defensive league with the purpose of preventing future Persian invasions. The league is established on the sacred island of Delos.

Athens becomes a dominating city and enters the Golden Age

454 BCE

Athens proves their power over the other members of the Delian League by transferring the league's treasury from the island of Delos to Athens. This sacrilegious act brought Athens great wealth, instituting the Golden Age of Athens.

Aspasia becomes Pericles' mistress

445 BCE

Aspasia was on of Pericles' closest companions and most influential advisors. She received criticism for her influence on the leader, but Pericles remained loyal and maintained his close relationship with Aspasia.
*Occurred mid 440s BCE. Exact year not specified in text

Pericles elected strategos of Athens for first time

443 BCE

Officials called strategos were elected as commanders of tribal army units. A notable strategos of Athens's Golden Age was Pericles, who was first elected in this year but would continue to be elected the 14 years following up to his death. Pericles was responsible for ensuring that poor citizens could participate in Athenian politics, paying the jurors and members of the Council of 500, designing beautiful public spaces in Athens, and more.