1. The Battle of Thermopylae

2. 2
Map retrieved from:
Athens and Persia .

3. A 4th century rendering of Emperor Darius3
Image retrieved from:
Conflict Begins
A 4th century rendering of Emperor Darius

4. The Battle of Marathon Persians and Athenians clashed at Marathon
Persians were unexpectedly defeated
Darius’ son Xerxes planned another attack in 480 BCE

5. The Battle of Thermopylae5
The Battle of Thermopylae
Persians vs. small group of Spartans
Spartans held off Persians for 7 days
Persians won battle
Meanwhile, Athens prepared for Persian invasion
Ultimately Greeks won

6. Central Historical Question
How many Persians were at the Battle of Thermopylae?