Greco-Persian Wars: What Happened
The Greco-Persian Wars were a series of conflicts between the Persian Empire and the Greek city-states, lasting from the Ionian Revolt of 499 BC until around 449 BC. Persia was the largest empire the world had yet seen, stretching from Egypt and Anatolia to the borders of India, while the Greeks were divided into hundreds of small, often rival cities. After Athens and Eretria helped the Ionian rebels, King Darius I sent an army to punish them, which the Athenians defeated at Marathon in 490 BC. Ten years later, his son Xerxes led a vast invasion by land and sea. Despite the Spartan stand at Thermopylae and the burning of Athens, the Greeks won decisive victories at Salamis in 480 BC and at Plataea and Mycale in 479 BC. Athens then led the Delian League in carrying the war to Persian territory. The Greek victory preserved the independence of the city-states and opened the way for the golden age of classical Athens. The historian Herodotus wrote the story of these wars, creating the first great work of history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the Greco-Persian Wars?
The Greco-Persian Wars were a series of conflicts between the Persian Empire and the Greek city-states from 499 to around 449 BC. They began with the Ionian Revolt and included Persian invasions of Greece in 490 and 480 BC.
Who won the Greco-Persian Wars?
The Greeks won. Despite being divided into many small city-states, they defeated the Persian invasions at Marathon, Salamis, Plataea and Mycale, preserving their independence.
What were the main battles of the Persian Wars?
The most famous battles were Marathon in 490 BC, Thermopylae, Artemisium and Salamis in 480 BC, and Plataea and Mycale in 479 BC.
Why did Persia invade Greece?
King Darius I wanted to punish Athens and Eretria for helping the Ionian Revolt and burning Sardis. Persia also sought to expand its empire westward into Europe.
Who wrote about the Greco-Persian Wars?
The historian Herodotus wrote the story of the wars in his Histories, the first great work of history in the Western world. The playwright Aeschylus, who fought at Marathon, also wrote The Persians.
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