

The Battle of Marathon
12 snips Sep 12, 2025
In 490 BCE, a small but fierce Greek force turned the tide against the vastly larger Persian Army at the Battle of Marathon. The podcast explores the intense rivalry fueled by Darius the Great's ambitions and the backdrop of Athenian democracy's rise. Listeners will witness the devastation faced by Eritrea, offering a personal glimpse into the war's impact. A gripping narrative unfolds as General Miltiades navigates overwhelming odds, ultimately securing Greek independence and inspiring the legendary Marathon race.
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Ionian Naval Disaster
- Dionysius and the Ionian fleet charged the Persian armada despite being hopelessly outnumbered at sea.
- The engagement ended with many Greek ships sunk and the Ionian revolt ultimately crushed by Persia.
Revolt Becomes Casus Belli
- Darius viewed Athens' support of the Ionian Revolt as a direct challenge to Persian rule and democracy itself.
- That perception transformed a regional rebellion into a full-scale plan to conquer Greece.
Eretria's Sack And March To Marathon
- The Persians destroyed Eretria and then landed at Marathon to threaten Athens directly with about 26,000 troops and 10,000 more marching south.
- The Athenians marched to Marathon and prepared to defend their city despite being outnumbered.