What was the major cause of the peloponnesian war between Athens and Sparta
The major cause of the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta was the growing power and influence of Athens, which threatened the dominance of Sparta and its allies in the Greek world. Athens had established a maritime empire, known as the Delian League, which controlled many Greek city-states and exerted considerable political and economic influence. This led to tensions between the two rival powers, eventually sparking a war that lasted for nearly three decades.
how was Sparta able to win in the peloponnesian war
Sparta was able to ultimately defeat Athens in the Peloponnesian War for several reasons:
1. Naval Blockade: The Spartan navy, with the help of Persian funding and guidance, was able to blockade Athens and cut off its food and supplies, leading to a famine and weakening of the Athenian population.
2. Revolt of Athens' Allies: Many of Athens' allies in the Delian League, such as the island of s and the city of Chios, revolted against Athens. This strained Athens' resources and weakened its grip on the empire.
3. Spartan Leadership: The Spartan general, Lysander, was a skilled and charismatic leader who won several decisive naval battles against the Athenians. His tactics and strategies were crucial in securing Spartan victories.
4. Persian Support: The Persian Empire, a longtime enemy of Athens, provided financial and naval support to Sparta, which significantly boosted their military capabilities.
5. Internal Strife in Athens: Athens faced internal political and social unrest during the later years of the war, which weakened its ability to effectively wage war.
Overall, a combination of military, political, and economic factors contributed to Sparta's eventual victory in the Peloponnesian War.
why did alexander stop his military campaign and turn back towards greece
Alexander the Great decided to turn back towards Greece and end his military campaign after reaching the easternmost parts of his empire for several reasons:
1. Mutiny and Exhaustion: Alexander's army had been campaigning for over a decade, and his troops were becoming increasingly tired and disheartened. Many soldiers wanted to return home to their families and were no longer willing to continue fighting in distant lands.
2. Declining Morale: As the campaign moved further east into unfamiliar and hostile territories, Alexander's soldiers started to lose morale and questioned the purpose and feasibility of continuing the conquest.
3. Loss of Support: The easternmost parts of the empire were culturally different from Greece and Macedonia, making it challenging for Alexander to maintain the loyalty and support of his troops and local populations.
4. Logistics and Supply Issues: The vast distances and harsh terrain of the eastern regions made it difficult to maintain supply lines and provide food and resources for the army. This logistical strain made it increasingly challenging to continue the campaign.
5. Homefront Concerns: There were reports of unrest and rebellions in Greece and Macedonia during Alexander's absence. He needed to return to address these domestic issues and secure his rule in his core territories.
6. Personal Health and Succession Planning: Alexander's health was also deteriorating, and he may have also been considering his succession and the future stability of his empire.
Overall, a combination of military, logistical, political, and personal factors prompted Alexander the Great to stop his military campaign and turn back towards Greece.