greece - weapons and warfare Flashcards
What was the ‘Classical’ period in Greece?
The ‘Classical’ period in Greece started after the Persian destruction of Athens and lasted about 150 years. It was marked by conflicts with Greek enemies and between Greek city-states.
What was unique about Greek city-states (polis)?
Greek city-states were independent with their own laws, customs, political systems, military, and currency. They only unified under Philip II and Alexander the Great.
What was the foundation of Greek city-state economies?
Farming was the foundation of Greek city-states, although by the Classical period, some diversified into trade and other economic activities.
How were Greek society and family structured?
Greek society was patriarchal, with the oikos (family household) as the most important social unit. Women were considered minors and came under the care of a kyrios (male guardian).
What do the sources from Herodotus and Xenophon reveal about war in Greece?
Herodotus emphasizes the religious significance of war and the role of gods. Xenophon highlights the importance of fighting valiantly and dying honorably in battle for one’s country.
What was the phalanx formation and its significance?
The phalanx was a body of heavy infantry in close rectangular formations, resilient in combat. It became the main form of Greek land warfare, used successfully until the rise of Macedonia.
What role did hoplites play in Greek warfare?
Hoplites were the mainstay of the Greek army. They fought in close combat with long spears, short swords, and bronze shields. Over time, they wore lighter armor for greater mobility.
What was Philip II’s military reform in Macedonia?
Philip II increased the size of the army, enlarged the cavalry, introduced a corps of engineers for siege weapons, and restructured the phalanx with more efficient command and weapons like the sarissa.
What military strategies did Alexander the Great employ?
Alexander used the phalanx and cavalry formations, with foot companions striking the center and cavalry attacking the flanks. He emphasized coordination and precision in battlefield maneuvers.
What was the significance of the cavalry in Alexander’s army?
The cavalry became the main strike force, reducing reliance on the phalanx. They executed decisive breakthroughs in battle and were valued for their mobility and strategic impact.
What role did archers (consider special types) and light infantry (special units) play in Alexander’s army?
Archers, especially Cretan and Persian archers, and light infantry units like the Agrianians, provided versatility and mobility, excelling in harsh terrain and supporting cavalry flanks.
How did hoplite training vary among Greek city-states?
Hoplite training was inconsistent across city-states. In Athens, military training included athletic contests like running and torch races, which were often tied to religious festivals.
What was the political and social significance of the Greek military?
The Greek military was closely linked to society and politics. Military success was seen as a sign of divine favor, and soldiers were honored in public ceremonies for their role in defending the polis.
How did Philip II finance his military campaigns?
Philip II captured gold mines in Thrace, which subsidized his army. He preferred paying for victories with gold, leveraging wealth as a political and military tool.
What was the impact of the Greek League under Philip II?
The Greek League, led by Philip II, promoted unity among Greek states. It allowed Philip to secure political autonomy for the states while also granting him full decision-making power for military campaigns.
