Rise and Fall of the Spartans

Explores every aspect of Sparta's culture, lifestyle, history and legacy. Author Steven Pressfield reflects on the significance of the Battle of Thermopylae, where a force led by 300 Spartan warriors stalled the advance of a hundred-thousand-plus strong Persian army for nearly a week. Scholars explore the factors that drove the Peloponnesian city-state to strive for martial excellence. Ancient accounts explain how Sparta's warriors were trained and detail their prowess in battle.

Overview Credits Watch Reviews Seasons Images Videos Recommendations Similar

Created By
Status	Ended
Original Name	Rise and Fall of the Spartans
First Air Date	September 30, 2002
Last Air Date	September 30, 2002
Seasons	1
Episodes	2
Episode Runtime	0min
Language	English
Original Language	English
Production Countries	United States of America
Production Companies	Triage Entertainment
Networks	History

S01E02

Tides of War

Following the Persian Wars, Sparta faces its greatest challenge: a decades-long struggle for Greek hegemony against the naval power of Athens. This part analyzes the Peloponnesian War, the internal pressures of the Helot revolts, and the systemic flaws that led to Sparta's eventual decline. The saga concludes with the Battle of Leuctra, where the Spartan myth of invincibility was finally shattered.

View Episode