Spartan Society
This was the name given to a full citizen of Sparta who had completed the required military training.
Spartiate
This formation of heavily armed soldiers was a key part of Greek warfare.
Phalanx
This legendary Spartan lawgiver is traditionally credited with creating Sparta's strict social system.
Lycurgus
This city-state was Sparta's greatest rival during the Peloponnesian War.
Athens
Sparta was located in this region of southern Greece.
Peloponnese
Spartan boys entered this rigorous education and military training system at about age 7.
Agoge
Spartan warriors were famous for carrying a round shield, spear, and this short sword.
Xiphos
This Spartan king led the famous defense at Thermopylae.
Leonidas I
Sparta led this alliance of Greek city-states during the Peloponnesian War.
Peloponnesian League
This famous Persian king invaded Greece and fought against the Spartans at Thermopylae.
Xerxes I
These people were the agricultural laborers who were controlled by the Spartan state.
Helots
According to tradition, Spartan soldiers were expected to return from battle with their shield—or be carried home on it.
“Come back with your shield”
Sparta traditionally had this unusual number of kings ruling at the same time.
Two kings
Sparta led this alliance of Greek city-states during the Peloponnesian War.
Peloponnesian War
The ancient name for the territory surrounding Sparta was this region.
Laconia
Unlike Athens, Sparta was especially famous for emphasizing this aspect of life.
Military life
Main battle between Persia and Sparta
Battle of Thermopylae
This Spartan general defeated Athens at the end of the Peloponnesian War.
Lysander
Sparta's victory in this war ended Athens' dominance of the Greek world.
Sparta's victory in the Peloponnesian War
The famous phrase “Molon labe,” traditionally associated with Leonidas, means this in English.
“Come and take them”
Spartan society was divided into three main groups: Spartiates, Perioeci, and this lowest-status group.
Helots
The Spartan army's reputation was built around extreme discipline, training, and this quality meaning courage in battle.
Courage/valor
This Spartan king was defeated and captured by the Thebans at the Battle of Leuctra in 371 BCE.
Cleombrotus I
This Greek city-state defeated Sparta at Leuctra, ending Sparta's period of dominance.
Thebes
This modern film, released in 2006, dramatized the Battle of Thermopylae and became famous for its stylized depiction of Spartans.
300