Greco-Persian Wars Research Paper

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Most Significant Result of the Greco-Persian Wars The Greco-Persian Wars, from 499 to 449 BCE, significantly shaped Western civilization. From my perspective, the most significant result of these wars was the establishment of Athenian dominance, leading to the Golden Age of Athens. This period saw advancements in democracy, philosophy, arts, and sciences that have profoundly impacted Western culture. Firstly, the Greek victory, especially Athens', over the Persian Empire boosted Athens' confidence and prestige. This allowed Athens to lead the Delian League, a coalition formed to continue fighting Persia and liberating Greek cities under Persian control. The Delian League evolved into the Athenian Empire, giving Athens considerable influence …show more content…

The Battle of Marathon and the naval Battle of Salamis demonstrated the strategic prowess and resilience of Greek forces. These military innovations influenced future warfare and underscored the importance of unity and strategy (The Greco-Persian Wars, 1996). Additionally, the wars fostered a sense of shared identity and unity among Greek city-states. Despite frequent internal conflicts, the collective effort to repel Persian invasions cultivated a pan-Hellenic identity celebrating freedom and self-governance (Cartledge, 2006). This cultural pride laid the groundwork for the spread of Hellenistic culture by Alexander the Great. The wars also had significant long-term effects on Greek politics and society. According to McLean (n.d.), "the violent actions of Spartan leader Pausanias during the siege of Byzantium alienated many Greek states from Sparta, leading to Athens assuming leadership of the Delian League." Sparta's withdrawal from the Delian League and the subsequent formation of the Peloponnesian League set the stage for the Peloponnesian War. Athens' use of the Delian League's resources for its own ends led to conflicts with less powerful members, transforming the League into an Athenian …show more content…

The advancements in democracy, philosophy, arts, and sciences during this period have left an enduring legacy, shaping the foundational principles and cultural achievements of the Western world. Word Count: 350 words. References Cartledge, P. (2006). The 'Secondary'. Thermopylae: The Battle That Changed the World. Internet Archive. https://archive.org/details/thermopylaebattl0000cart_h8c8 Holland, T. (2006). The 'Secondary'. Persian fire: the first world empire and the battle for the West. Internet Archive. https://archive.org/details/persianfirefirst00tomh Kagan, D. (1991). The Species of the World. Pericles of Athens and the Birth of Democracy. The Free Press. McLean, A. P. J. n.d. - n.d. - n.d. Effects of the Persian Wars | Western Civilization. https://courses.lumenlearning.com/atd-herkimer-westerncivilization/chapter/effects-of-the-persian-wars/ Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. 2024, June 7 -. Greco-Persian Wars | Definition, battles, summary, facts, effects, & history. Encyclopedia Britannica.

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