Pericles and the Athenian Golden Age

The period from 449 to 431 B.C. in Athens, marked by peace and prosperity, significant cultural advancements, and the contributions of Pericles.

A strong leader of Athens during its Golden Age, known for his political and military skills, and for promoting Athenian culture.

A political alliance of Greek city-states, initially aimed at fighting Persia, but later transformed into an Athenian empire.

A monumental temple on the Acropolis in Athens, dedicated to the goddess Athena, built during the time of Pericles.

A city-state in ancient Greece, known for its military strength and rivalry with Athens.

A devastating outbreak that ravaged Athens during the Peloponnesian War, decimating the population and contributing to Athenian losses.

A long and devastating conflict between rival city-states in ancient Greece, Athens and Sparta, that lasted for 27 years.

The loss of power and influence of Athens following the Peloponnesian War, marking the end of its Golden Age.

The period between 449 and 431 B.C. when Athens flourished under the leadership of Pericles, marked by cultural achievements and advancements in art, philosophy, and democracy.

The first citizen of Athenian democracy, a brilliant general, speaker, lawmaker, and supporter of the arts, who played a key role in shaping Athenian society and culture during the Golden Age.

A military alliance formed by Athens and its allies after the Persian attack in 479 B.C., focused on defending against the Persians.

The famous temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, built on the Acropolis in Athens during the Golden Age under Pericles’ leadership.

The devastating war between Athens and Sparta that lasted for over 27 years, from 431 to 404 B.C.

The leader of the democratic party in Athens, Pericles successfully led Athenian troops against the Corinthians in 454 B.C., establishing colonies in northern Greece and on the Black Sea.

A leading Athenian general, Pericles held the position of strategos, one of the highest positions in the Athenian government, for most of his life.

The transfer of the Delian League’s money from Delos to Athens after a failed Athenian attack on the Persians in 454 B.C.

Spartan children were rigorously trained in military skills from the age of 7 to 29 in a program called agōgē. This training included physical fitness, battle simulations, and strict obedience. Boys and girls were trained separately, and they lived in communal living quarters away from their families. The Spartans believed these tough conditions were necessary for their survival, as they constantly faced threats from the enslaved helots who outnumbered them.

A group of enslaved People who were conquered and forced to work for the Spartans. Their unrest posed a constant threat to Sparta, as they outnumbered the Spartans. The Spartans focused on military training to counter this threat, as they felt that their survival depended on constant readiness for battle.

The Spartans were famous for their fierce battles, especially the Battle of Thermopylae, where 300 Spartans led by King Leonidas bravely defended a narrow mountain pass against a much larger Persian army. Though overwhelmed by the enemy, their courage and loyalty became legendary.

Sparta, known for its strong military, adopted a strict and demanding lifestyle. This lifestyle revolved around military training, discipline, and obedience, aimed at creating a powerful warrior society ready to defend against the threat of revolting helots. Spartan citizens lived in a strictly controlled environment, focused on military preparedness and discipline.

The Spartans focused on military training and discipline from a young age, with boys and girls being trained separately. This intensive training, called agōgē, aimed to produce a strong warrior society, instilled loyalty and obedience in the young Spartans. It was through this demanding regimen that they became known for their courage and military prowess.

The Spartans’ dedication to military training was influenced by their constant need to defend against the threat of the helots, who were enslaved people they conquered but outnumbered them. This ongoing threat shaped their lifestyle, forcing them to remain vigilant and prepared for war to maintain their control.

Spartan warriors fought alongside the Athenians in the Persian Wars, including the famous Battle of Thermopylae where 300 Spartans valiantly defended a narrow pass against a vastly superior Persian force. This heroic stand, despite the Spartans' defeat, serves as a testament to their courage and unwavering loyalty.

The Spartans' military prowess was legendary, with their strict training and aggressive tactics making them formidable opponents in ancient Greece. This fighting spirit, instilled through their agōgē training, made them a powerful force to be reckoned with in ancient warfare.