The Persian Wars

The Battle of Marathon

490 BCE

On the Plains of Marathon, even though the Persians outnumbered the Athenians, the Athenians took advantage of the Persians' attacking strategy by strengthening the wings of their force. This resulted in victory for the people of Athens and defeat for the Persians. This battle is one of the most famous Persian wars and it is significant because it ended the first invasion by the Persians in Greece.

The Battle of Thermopylae

480 BCE

One of the Greeks betrayed his people and led the Persians along a path that helped trap the Greeks. This resulted in victory for the Persians. This battle did not spare one Greek soldier. The Battle of Thermopylae was important because even though the Greeks lost, it prepared them for the future and resulted in victory for the following battles.

The Battle of Salamis

480 BCE

The Greeks defeated the Persians by rapidly attacking their ships. The Persians outnumbered the Greeks but the Greeks still took down 200 of the Persian ships, resulting in victory. This was an important battle because although the Greeks were outnumbered and battling in narrow waters, the still beat the Persians.

The Delian League

478 BCE

The Delian League is a military alliance that was organized and led by the Athenians, between 150 other city-states. It was made to strengthen their side against Persia and protect them from possible battles in the future.