The First War for Western Civilization
The Greco-Persian War was pivotal in the creation of the modern world - yet all that is generally remembered are the 300 Spartans at Thermopylae. This documentary examines the whole history, from the Ionian Revolt (497BC) to the Peace of Callias (449BC), and also covers the legacies of the war - including Democracy.
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Seasons & Episodes
1. The Beginning
A look at Athens and the First Democracy at the start of the Greco-Persian war.
2. Treachery
Sparta and Greece; the origins of the war; the Persian invasion of Greece at Marathon and the battle
3. The Battle of Marathon
The famous battle is examined.
4. Rise and Fall
Myths of the Battle of Marathon are examined.
5. The Great Invasion of Xerxes
Leonidas and his 300 Spartans vs. Xerxes and his 250,000 Persians- the battle is joined at Thermopylae.
6. Leonidas and the 300 Spartans
The facts of the famous battle of Thermopylae.
7. Decision in Greece
The war continues and is concluded in the Peace of Callias, aka the Peace of Kimon.
8. Aftermath and Legacy
What the Greco-Persian War means for the modern world.
