The Peloponnesian War, Part 1: Plague, Attrition, and a Decade of Bloodshed
Tides of History
The Seeds of Conflict: How Actions Shape Wars
The course of the war hinged on the decisions of a few key players, particularly the F-ors, demonstrating that victory may not be necessary, but the ability to avoid defeat is critical. The war's inception was marked by a struggle for control over Plataea initiated by Thebes, a Spartan ally, against Plataea, an Athenian ally. The Thebans attempted a surprise takeover which resulted in fierce resistance from the Plataans, leading to the capture and execution of 180 Theban prisoners. This shocking retaliation not only exemplified the brutality of warfare but also established an alarming precedent for the conflict, foreshadowing the relentless violence that would characterize the ensuing war.
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