1. Ancient Greek Military Structure  Hoplites –Heavily armed foot soldiers (infantry) –Were equipped with…  A round shield  A short sword  A 9 foot thrusting spear

2. The Phalanx  The primary formation of the military was the phalanx. –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.  However, it was… –Very slow moving –Vulnerable in the sides and rear –Tough to maneuver and retreat

5. The Phalanx  Each phalanx would march into battle, breaking into a run when they neared each other.  Both sides would collide viciously, breaking many of the spears of the front row.  Men in the front needed to be brave and men in the rear needed to push forward. –Turned into a pushing match. –Often, the phalanx would retreat out of fear before even attacking!

6. Sparta

7. The End of the Dark Ages It’s the end of the Greek Dark Ages… Populations are rebounding and you need more resources for your people. What do you do if you are located in Sparta? Athens? Why? How is your decision impacted by geography?

9. Spartan Society  A military state.  Conquered territories and enslaved their people. –Helots – Spartan slaves, Greek for “capture”  Men spent childhood learning military discipline. –Lived in barracks until 30 years old. –Stayed in army until 60 years old.  Women were to remain fit in order to bear healthy children.

10. What would life be like growing up as a Spartan?

11. 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? They might encounter new ideas that challenged the Spartan military culture and government.

12. 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

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

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