Timeline: Unit 2

900 BCE

Sparta is founded

Sparta was established in the region of Laconia in the southeastern Peloponnese.

700 BCE

First Messenian war

Sparta engaged in a prolonged conflict with Messenia, leading to the subjugation of the Messenian people.

700 BCE

Entertainment

First documented musical competitions in Greece. Sparta, along with Argos and Paros, held these competitions, highlighting the cultural aspects of Spartan society

Period: 685 BCE to 668 BCE

Second Messenian War

A significant uprising by the Messenians against Spartan rule, which Sparta ultimately suppressed.

Period: 669 BCE to 668 BCE

First Battle of Hysiae

A conflict between Sparta and Argos resulted in a Spartan defeat.

645 BCE

Messenian Revolt

Suppression of the Messenian Revolt. Sparta crushed the Messenian revolt, solidifying its control over the Messenian region.

548 BCE

Control of Thyrea

Control of Thyrea. Sparta took control of Thyrea from Argos, expanding its territorial influence.

545 BCE

Peloponnesian League Formation

Sparta established the Peloponnesian League, an alliance with Corinth, Elis, and Tegea, which established Spartan hegemony over the Peloponnese.

494 BCE

Battle of Sepeia

Sparta achieved a decisive victory over Argos, reinforcing its military dominance in the region.

480 BCE

Battle of Thermopylae

King Leonidas I led a small force of Spartans and allies against the Persian army, becoming a symbol of courage and sacrifice.

480 BCE

Battle of Salamis

Although not directly involving Sparta, the naval victory by the Greek city-states, including Spartan allies, was crucial in repelling the Persian invasion.

479 BCE

Battle of Plataea

It was a decisive land battle where the Greek forces, led by Sparta, defeated the Persian army, effectively ending the Persian invasion.

431 BCE

Peloponnesian War

Sparta and its allies fought against Athens and its allies, ultimately leading to Spartan victory and the end of the Athenian Empire.

394 BCE

Sack of Sparta

The city was sacked by the Visigothic king Alaric, further contributing to its decline.

371 BCE

Battle of Naxos

A naval engagement where Sparta was defeated by Athens, signaling a shift in naval power in the Aegean.

362 BCE

Second Battle of Mantinea.

This was a significant battle in which Sparta, along with Athens and other allies, faced off against the Theban-led Boeotian League. The result was a tactical draw but a strategic loss for Sparta.