Ancient Greece: Origins and Myths Ancient Greece was a civilization that existed alongside the pyramids of Egypt and Babylon. It began on the island of Crete, which was later destroyed by a volcanic eruption. The Greeks settled in cities like Athens and Sparta, borrowing from previous civilizations. They conquered Crete and became skilled in maritime trade.
The Rise of Greek Civilization "Dark Ages" followed the decline of ancient Greek civilization until Homer's works emerged as valuable historical records. During this time, Athens transformed into a democracy while Sparta became militaristic. Ionia led advancements with their alphabet, coinage, mathematics, naval fleets, and complex trade logistics.
Athens vs Sparta: Conflict & Cultural Achievements Greece faced threats from Persia but managed to win battles through military innovation at Marathon using close formation tactics (phalanx), holding off Persian forces at Thermopylae for three days with only 300 Spartans plus other Greeks' help,and defeating them decisively in naval battle thanks to new warships funded by silver deposits found near Athens.Athens then established itself as the centerofGreek culturewiththe constructionoftheParthenonandbecamea financial powerhouse under Pericles.However,thePeloponnesianWarbetweenAthensandSpartadestroyedbothcities'prosperity.Eventually,GreekcultureinfluencedRomanEmpirewhichconqueredGreecebutadopteditslanguage,literature,andart.