Battle of Marathon

Definition

The Battle of Marathon was a pivotal confrontation in 490 BCE during the first Persian invasion of Greece, where the Athenian army faced off against a much larger Persian force. This battle is often seen as a symbol of Greek unity and courage, as it marked a significant victory for the city-state of Athens against one of the greatest empires of the ancient world. The victory not only boosted Athenian morale but also played a crucial role in shaping the course of Greek history and the eventual rise of democracy in Athens.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Battle of Marathon occurred on September 12, 490 BCE, and is renowned for being a decisive victory for the Athenians despite their smaller numbers.
2. The Persian forces, led by King Darius I, aimed to punish Athens for its support of the Ionian Revolt against Persian rule.
3. The Athenian general Miltiades played a crucial role in devising the strategy that led to the surprising and swift attack on the Persians.
4. After their victory at Marathon, the Athenians sent a messenger, Pheidippides, to relay news back to Athens, which is commemorated in modern marathon races.
5. The successful defense at Marathon galvanized Greek city-states, fostering a sense of unity that would later be essential in repelling further Persian invasions.

Review Questions

• How did the tactics employed by the Athenian forces at the Battle of Marathon contribute to their unexpected victory over the larger Persian army?
  • The Athenian forces utilized clever tactics that emphasized speed and surprise. General Miltiades arranged his troops in a strong formation that allowed them to strike hard at the center of the Persian line while also taking advantage of their knowledge of the terrain. By choosing to engage quickly before reinforcements could arrive, they capitalized on their superior morale and training, leading to a stunning victory against overwhelming odds.
• Discuss how the outcome of the Battle of Marathon influenced subsequent Greek military and political developments.
  • The victory at Marathon had profound implications for Greek military strategy and political development. It boosted Athenian confidence and showcased their military capabilities, encouraging other city-states to resist Persian domination. This newfound pride helped strengthen Athenian democracy as citizens became more engaged in political processes and governance, setting a precedent for future collective efforts against external threats like Persia.
• Evaluate the long-term significance of the Battle of Marathon on Western civilization and democratic ideals.
  • The Battle of Marathon is often viewed as a key moment in establishing Western civilization's values, particularly concerning democratic ideals and resistance to tyranny. By successfully defending themselves against a powerful empire, the Greeks illustrated the effectiveness of citizen-soldiers fighting for their homeland. This spirit contributed to the evolution of democratic governance in Athens, influencing political thought in later civilizations and laying groundwork for concepts like civic duty and participatory government that resonate today.

Related terms

Persian Empire: A vast empire that stretched from the Balkans to the Indus Valley, known for its powerful military and administrative organization, which sought to expand its influence into Greece.

Pheidippides: An Athenian herald who famously ran from Marathon to Athens to announce the victory over the Persians, leading to the modern marathon race's origin.

Athenian Democracy: A system of government established in Athens that emphasized citizen participation, particularly after victories like Marathon, which encouraged greater involvement in political processes.