Tides of History The Aftermath of the Peloponnesian War and the March of the 10,000 Greeks
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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.
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The March of 10,000 Greeks
- Ten thousand Greek mercenaries marched deep into Persia, far from home, in harsh winter conditions with high casualties.
- They faced hostile locals and extreme weather, bonded by a hope of returning home that many would never realize.
150 Years of Greek-Persian Interaction
- The Greco-Persian Wars ignited a 150-year period of intense Greek-Persian interaction rather than ending their conflicts.
- Persia remained a dominant force, deeply influencing internal Greek politics until Alexander's era.
Persian Strategic Responses to Greek Revolts
- Persia's rich western province of Lydia, including Greek cities, was a major loss due to Greek liberation campaigns.
- Though costly in prestige, Persia tolerated localized conflict away from the empire's core for strategic reasons.