Tides of History
The Aftermath of the Peloponnesian War and the March of the 10,000 Greeks
Jul 25, 2024
Explore the aftermath of the Peloponnesian War with the 10,000 Greek soldiers under Cyrus, uncovering Greek-Persian interactions and power struggles. Delve into the dynamics of the Persian Empire, the role of mercenaries, and Cyrus's rebellion. Follow Xenophon and the mercenaries on their post-war adventures, navigating battles and alliances in a changing political landscape.
41:30
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Quick takeaways
- The Persian Empire's influence on Greek politics shaped alliances and interventions, impacting events like the rise of the Athenian Empire.
- Xenophon's 'Anabasis' vividly portrays the struggles, alliances, betrayals, and ultimate survival of the 'Ten Thousand' Greek mercenaries on their treacherous journey home.
Deep dives
The Stranded Greek Mercenaries Led by Cyrus and Their Journey Home
When the Persian Prince Cyrus died, his Greek soldiers, 10,000 strong, found themselves stranded in enemy territory. Led by their loyalty to pay and survival, these battle-hardened mercenaries faced harsh winter conditions as they marched homeward through snowy mountains, where they endured snow blindness, frostbite, and ambushes by local tribesmen. The Greeks, accustomed to lives of warfare, grappled with the concept of 'home' as they journeyed through dangerous lands filled with fallen comrades and constant threats.
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