1. Greek Military and Sparta

2. Ancient Greek Military Structure
Hoplites
Heavily armed foot soldiers (infantry)
Navy
Greeks were seafaring traders by nature

3. The Phalanx The primary formation of the military
Rectangular (boxed) shape
Made a wall of spears and shields.
Effectiveness depended on how well the men could stay in formation and hold their ground.
Problems?

7. Why? Spartan Society Foreigners were discouraged from visiting.
Spartans were not allowed to travel.
Unless for war.
Spartans were not allowed to study philosophy, literature, or the arts.
Why?

8. Spartan War Poetry
“It is beautiful when a brave man of the front ranks falls and dies battling for his homeland… Young men, fight shield to shield and never succumb to panic or miserable flight, But steel the heart in your chests with magnificence and courage. Forget your own life When you grapple with the enemy.” -Tyrtaeus

9. Spartan Government Structure
Oligarchy
Government by the few
Two Kings
Led the Spartan army into battle
The two kings, plus 28 other men over the age of 60
Council of Elders
Decided on issues that would be presented to…
Made up of male citizens
The Assembly
Did not debate; only voted on issues
Elected each year
Five Ephors
Responsible for education of youth and conduct of all citizens

13. “Come back with your shield or on it.”
Spartan Society
Spartan Mothers:
“Come back with your shield or on it.”
With your shield – returned a hero
On your shield – returned a fallen hero
Without your shield – a coward