Influence of Geography on Early Greek Civilization

These flashcards cover key concepts about early Greek civilization, including geography, society, politics, and conflicts.

How did physical geography influence the lives of the early Greeks?

The mountainous and maritime landscape made Greek communities independent and trade-oriented.

What is a peninsula?

A body of land with water on three sides.

What is the significance of the Aegean Sea in Greek history?

It facilitated trade and cultural exchange between Greece and Anatolia.

How did the Minoan civilization come to an end?

It's theorized to have collapsed due to undersea earthquakes or invasions by the Mycenaeans.

Who were the Mycenaeans?

A civilization that took over Minoan Crete and set up kingdoms in mainland Greece.

What characterized the political structure of Mycenaean kingdoms?

Each kingdom was centralized around a palace with thick stone walls for protection.

What was the Dark Age in ancient Greece?

A period marked by decline in trade, writing, and economic activity following the fall of Mycenaean civilization.

What led to the development of the idea of citizenship in Greek city-states?

Emergence of independent city-states with local governance and community loyalty.

What was a polis?

The basic political unit in Greek civilization, consisting of a city and surrounding countryside.

What were the main characteristics of citizenship in ancient Greece?

Citizens had rights to vote, hold office, and owned property, with responsibilities to serve in government.

How did the Dorian invasion impact Greek culture?

It led to the spread of iron weaponry and a shift in power towards the Dorian descendants.

What type of government did Sparta have?

An oligarchy, led by two kings and a council of elders.

What distinguished Athenian education from Spartan education?

Athenians emphasized a broad education including arts, whereas Spartans focused on military training.

How did the Persian Empire manage its vast territories?

By dividing the empire into provinces governed by satraps to oversee administration and taxes.

What was Zoroastrianism?

A monotheistic religion preached by Zoroaster that emphasized the struggle between good and evil.

What tactics did the Greeks use to win at the Battle of Marathon?

They attacked the Persians while they were loading their cavalry onto ships, catching them off-guard.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Salamis?

The Greek navy achieved a decisive victory by exploiting the narrow straits against the larger Persian fleet.

What ultimately led to the decline of the Persian Empire?

Military defeats, internal dissent, and heavy taxation that caused dissatisfaction among the people.