The Spartan State Flashcards
Where was the Sparta situated?
In the south east of the Peloponnese peninsular in southern Greece.
Where was the city itself situated?
In a deep valley though which flowed the Eurotas river. The valley was bound by mountains on both sides.
What were the key advantages of Sparta’s location?
Food resources and defense.
Why was there good food sources?
The valley was very fertile, and particularly suitable for fruit and olive-growing, while the Eurotas river provided a plentiful supply of fish. In addition, the forests of the adjacent mountains were teeming with wild animals - Spartans famous for their love of hunting.
Why did Spartans have good defense?
Geography of the Eurotas valley created a natural defence system for the city. The mountains could be crossed only through a series of natural passes, while to the south the coastline of Laconia was rugged and marsh-ridden. As a result, it was very difficult for Sparta’s enemies to attack either by land or sea, while the Spartans could keep a tight control on who entered and exited their territory.
What did the Dorian invaders do?
Invaded and colonised regions of Greece, particularly the Peloponnese.
Who were the Dorians?
Invaders from the lands north of Greece.
Among these Dorian invaders who was there?
People who arrived in the Eurotas valley and established four villages in Sparta.
What happened when Sparta started to expand?
Their territorial control expanded and soon they controlled the whole of Laconia.
What did the Spartans allow other Dorian settlers?
A degree of self-government, as long as they accepted Spartan rule. Perioeci.
What happened to Achaean Greeks still living in Laconia?
They were reduced to the status of slaves who were forced to work. Helots.
Where in Greece was the city of Sparta?
- South Peloponnese.
- In a deep valley through which flowed the Eurotas river.
- Valley was surrounded by mountains on both sides.
Explain what the other Greeks though about the Spartans?
- Stupid.
- Old fashioned.
- Frightening.
- Cruel.
- Barbaric.
Do you think it was an advantage to the Spartans that they didn’t mix with other Greeks?
- Isolationism would ensure no foreign ideas could upset the status quo.
- Maintains the control of those in authority and ensures stability in society.
- It ensured the continuation of prejudice towards Spartan society by other cities of the Greek world which led to tense and troubled relations.
