The Athenian Empire and the Coming of the Peloponnesian War
Tides of History
Leadership Dynamics in the Dilean League
After the Persian invasion, the Greeks formed the Dilean League with Athens as its leader, despite Spartan displeasure. The Spartans had the largest army and were less affected by the Persian devastation compared to Athens. However, Athenians were chosen for their naval power and recovery from the Persian attacks. The Dilean League consisted of around 150 Greek states, mainly seafaring cities, and had a joint treasury on the island of Delos. Athens led the alliance with its naval forces and financial strength, while Sparta and other land powers like Corinth and Thebes chose not to engage. Consequently, the Dilean League transformed from a defensive alliance against the Persians to a means for Athens to extract tribute from its subordinate states.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
