Persian+Wars


 * 1st Persian War** (492 - 490 BC)
 * Begins with revolt in Miletus (499 BC) - with aid from the Athenians (who were technically under Persian rule)
 * Darius was angry and sent the Persians to conquer and squash Athens to send a message
 * They arrived at Marathon, but waited for the Athenians to leave their walls
 * Asked Spartans for help, but they did not want to ... more waiting
 * Ten Day General rotation occurs in Athenian Military - On 10th Day, General Militiades, attacked
 * They won and soon other areas of Persia revolted


 * Aftermath, Militiades lost his power because he embezzled - Silver was found in Athens and Thermistokles convinced the Athenians to build a Navy


 * 2nd Persian War** (480-479 BC)
 * Xerxes takes a long time (6 years) to plan the invasion
 * 480 BC - invades all of Greece
 * The City States unite and defend at Thermoplyea (Military Advantage), they do stand, the strongest of course being the Spartans, but before this 300 Spartans have to sacrifice their lives at Thermoplyae because a Greek traitor tells Xerxes the way over the mountains to surround and kill the Spartans.
 * THIS did not work and Thermistokles needed help (He went to the Oracle of Delphi)
 * He interpreted her prediction as to defend Greece with the Athenian Navy
 * He trapped the Persian Fleet in the straits of the islands (Great Victory) and also a very bloody victory
 * War went on in Plataea - Took Two Years but they Won


 * Aftermath, Athens rebuilds its walls - Thermistokles is ostracized - Athens Navy is fully realized