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Spartans

 

            
             Throughout the history of Sparta we see a dominating state that thrived on a highly militarized society. Why were they militarized? What was their society like? Was Athens better off than Sparta? These are some of the questions I will elicit as I investigate the question: Was Sparta successful? .
             Why did the Spartans become militarized? There were many small factors that led to the militarization of the Sparta. However, the major underlying reason resides in the Messenean War. "The Spartan world derived from four small villages that united to form one polis (Duiker p.102)." With the unification of the villages, the Spartans grew in population and strength. "Like all civilizations that face expansion, the Spartans needed more land to feed the people (WSU)." The land that the Messeneans occupied was the perfect fit for what the Spartans were looking for. Thus, "In 725 B.C.E., The Spartans crossed the mountains and seized control over the Messenean peoples. However, like all conquered people, the Messeneans did not appreciate the loss of their independence. With the help of the city-state of Argos, the Messeneans revolted in 640 B.C.E. This was no ordinary revolt. The Messeneans almost destroyed the city-state of Sparta itself (WSU)." The Messenean's may have almost defeated Sparta, but failed to do so in the long run. The Spartans, feeling the aftershock of almost being annihilated, needed a new form of defense that would protect them from their enemies. In need of security, the Spartans turned to the radical military state, inspired by the Lycurgan reforms. The Spartans would now embark on a rigorous campaign to create "super soldiers," through heavy training and strict discipline that would lead to Sparta's success. Through the hardships of the Messenean wars, Sparta created a militarized society that would ensure them national security for years to come. .
             What was Spartan society like? Under the new form of government, Spartan society became a very strict and disciplined society.


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