World Civ Second Exam (Ancient Greece)

Around what sea did mostly Ancient Greece develop as
one of the first European civilizations?

the Aegean Sea.

What mythological figure is Europe named after?

Europa, a Phoenician princess.

What is the historical name for early Greek history
when Minoans and Mycenaeans flourished?

Aegean Civilization

Who were the Minoans?

The Minoans were an ancient civilization that arose on the island of Crete, known for their advanced architecture, trade networks, and contributions to early Greek culture.

On what main island did they (The Minoans) develop in the southern Aegean basin?

Crete

Who was the archaeologist that discovered the
Minoans? What palace did he excavate in the early
1900s?

Arthur Evans, Knossos

Who is the mythological king associated with the
Minoans?

Minos, the legendary king of Crete.

What famous legend is associated with this (Minos) King?

The legend of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth.

What was the main Minoan language discovered by
Arthur Evans?

Linear A, an undeciphered script.

What type of artwork were the Minoans famous for in
their palaces and homes?

Frescoes, depicting vibrant scenes and nature.

What caused the Minoans to decline?

The decline of the Minoans is attributed to a combination of natural disasters, such as volcanic eruptions and tsunamis, as well as invasions by foreign powers like the Mycenaeans.

What myth or legend is possibly associated with their (The Minoans) decline?

The legend of the Minotaur and the labyrinth, which symbolizes the challenges and dangers faced by the Minoans, particularly relating to their encounters with the Mycenaeans.

Who were the Mycenaeans? Where did they develop in
Greece?

The Mycenaeans were an ancient Greek civilization known for their palatial states, written records in Linear B, and their role in the late Bronze Age. They developed primarily in the Peloponnese region of Greece.

What main language did they (The Mycenaeans) adopt that was similar to Minoan writing?

Linear B, used for administrative purposes.

What type of cities were the Mycenaeans famous for building?
Which one was the most famous?

The Mycenaeans were famous for building large, fortified palace complexes known as citadels, with Mycenae being the most renowned.

Who was the German archaeologist who discovered
and excavated sites such as Mycenae?

Heinrich Schliemann, known for his contributions to uncovering Mycenaean civilization.

What was the Lion Gate?

A monumental gateway that served as the entrance to the citadel of Mycenae, featuring a relief of two lions.

What tombs were discovered by Schliemann at
Mycenae?

The Shaft Graves, which contained rich grave goods and artifacts associated with Mycenaean elites.

What epic poems were the Greek poet Homer famous
for writing?

The Iliad and The Odyssey, which are foundational works of ancient Greek literature recounting the Trojan War and Odysseus's adventures.

What was the Trojan War? What was its main cause
according to Homer?

The Trojan War was a legendary conflict between the Achaeans and the city of Troy, primarily caused by the abduction of Helen, the wife of Menelaus, by Paris of Troy. It is depicted in Homer's epic poems, detailing themes of honor, revenge, and the consequences of pride.

How long did the Trojan War last?

According to legend, the Trojan War lasted for ten years, culminating in the fall of Troy.

Who were some major characters in the Iliad?

Major characters in the Iliad include Achilles, Agamemnon, Hector, and Patroclus, who play crucial roles in the narrative surrounding the Trojan War.

At what Turkish site did Schliemann possibly discover
ancient Troy?

Hisarlik

What artifacts were found by Schliemann in 1873 at this
site?

Schliemann discovered a wealth of artifacts, including gold jewelry, pottery, and weapons, which he believed were remnants of the Trojan War.

What people invaded Greece during the Greek Dark
Ages that began around 1200 B.C.?

The Dorians invaded Greece during the Greek Dark Ages, leading to significant cultural changes and the loss of literacy.

What three main tribes of these peoples settled around
the Aegean which the names also represented the
different Greek dialects?

The three main tribes are the Ionians, Dorians, and Aeolians, representing distinct Greek dialects and cultural groups.

What is the Greek name for the city-state that emerges
around the 8th Century when Olympics began?

The Greek name for this city-state is Olympia, known for hosting the ancient Olympic Games starting in 776 B.C.

What two main historical periods make up Hellenic Age
between 776 - 323 B.C.?

The two main historical periods are the Archaic Period (c. 776-480 B.C.) and the Classical Period (c. 480-323 B.C.).

What were the acropolis and agora in a Greek city-
state?

The acropolis was a fortified hilltop that served as a religious center and a place of refuge, while the agora was the central public space used for assemblies, markets, and social gatherings.

What types of government did the Greeks develop?
Which did Athens and Sparta prefer?

The Greeks developed various types of government, including democracy, oligarchy, and monarchy. Athens favored democracy, while Sparta preferred oligarchy.

What were hoplites? What battle formation did they
use?

Hoplites were heavily armed foot soldiers of ancient Greece who fought in a phalanx formation, tightly arranged in ranks and files.

What were types of weapons and armor used by hoplite
soldiers?

Hoplite soldiers used a variety of weapons and armor, including a spear (dory), a shield (aspis), and iron or bronze armor. Their equipment was designed for close combat in the phalanx formation.

On what peninsulas did Sparta and Athens develop in
Greece?

the Peloponnesian and Attic Peninsulas, respectively. Athens was located on the Attic Peninsula while Sparta developed on the Peloponnesian Peninsula.

What was the name of the Ancient region where Sparta
developed in southern Greece?

Laconia

Who were the Helots that Spartans used to farm their
land?

The Helots were a subjugated population of serfs in ancient Sparta, primarily of Messenian origin. They were bound to the land and forced to work for the Spartan citizens, providing agricultural labor and supporting the Spartan economy.

Who was King Lycurgus?

King Lycurgus was a legendary lawgiver of Sparta, traditionally credited with establishing the military-oriented reformation of Spartan society and laws, including the rigorous training system known as the Agoge.

What was the Agoge?

The Agoge was the strict education and training regimen mandated for all male Spartan citizens, designed to instill discipline, endurance, and martial skills necessary for a soldier's life.

How was the political government of Sparta divided up
within its oligarchy?

The political government of Sparta was divided into two hereditary kings, a council of elders known as the Gerousia, and an assembly of citizens called the Apella, which collectively governed the city-state.

What was Athens famous for as a city-state? Who was it
named for?

Athens was famous for its cultural, artistic, and intellectual achievements, notably as the birthplace of democracy. It was named after the goddess Athena, who was the patron deity of the city.

Who was Solon of Athens? What were examples of
Reforms he made to the Athenian state?
What were some assemblies, court system founded by
Solon at Athens?

Solon (c. 630–560 BCE) was an Athenian statesman, lawmaker, and poet. He is best known for laying the foundations of democracy in Athens through a series of political, economic, and legal reforms. Solon was appointed as archon (chief magistrate) around 594 BCE during a time of severe social and economic crisis in Athens. His reforms aimed to ease tensions between the aristocracy and the common people, prevent tyranny, and establish a more just system.

What type of ruler was Pisistratus?

Pisistratus (c. 605–527 BCE) was a tyrant of Athens, meaning he seized power unconstitutionally but ruled with broad popular support. Despite being a tyrant in the classical sense (one who gained power through non-traditional means rather than through inheritance or election), his rule was relatively mild and beneficial for Athens.

What was a Tyranny that ruled Greece?

In ancient Greece, a tyranny was a form of government where a single ruler, called a tyrant, seized power unlawfully—usually bypassing aristocratic or democratic institutions. However, Greek tyrants were not necessarily cruel rulers; many were popular leaders who enacted reforms benefiting the lower classes.

Who was Cleisthenes?

Cleisthenes (c. 570–508 BCE) was an Athenian statesman often called the "Father of Athenian Democracy." He played a crucial role in reforming Athens' political system after the fall of the tyrant Hippias in 510 BCE. His reforms, introduced around 508/507 BCE, laid the foundation for a more inclusive and democratic government in Athens.

What democratic reforms did he (Cleisthenes) make to Athens?

Cleisthenes introduced a series of political reforms that laid the foundation for Athenian democracy. His goal was to break the power of aristocratic families and create a more inclusive government based on citizen participation.

What were the Greco-Persian Wars (Persian Wars)

The Greco-Persian Wars were a series of conflicts between the Greek city-states and the Persian Empire of the Achaemenids. These wars shaped the course of Western civilization and established Greek dominance in the eastern Mediterranean.

What was the main cause of the wars (Greco-Presian) breaking out?

The primary cause of the Greco-Persian Wars (499–449 BCE) was the Ionian Revolt (499–494 BCE). The Greek city-states of Ionia (modern-day Turkey), under Persian rule, rebelled against Persian control with support from Athens and Eretria. After Persia crushed the revolt, Darius I sought revenge on Athens for interfering. Additionally, Persia aimed to expand its empire into Greece, clashing with the Greek city-states' desire for independence. This conflict of interests ultimately led to the wars.

What was the Achaemenid (Persian) Empire?

The Achaemenid Empire (c. 550–330 BCE) was the first Persian empire, founded by Cyrus the Great after overthrowing the Medes. It became the largest empire of its time, stretching from India to the Balkans and Egypt. The empire was known for its tolerance of different cultures, an efficient administration (satrap system), and infrastructure projects like the Royal Road. It reached its height under Darius I but later declined after defeats in the Greco-Persian Wars and was ultimately conquered by Alexander the Great in 330 BCE.

What was the background and origins of the Persians?

The Persians were an Indo-Iranian people who migrated to the Iranian plateau around 1000 BCE. They originally lived as nomadic herders in the region of Parsa (Persis), in modern-day southern Iran. By the 7th century BCE, they were vassals of the Medes, another Iranian group. However, in 550 BCE, Cyrus the Great overthrew the Medes, uniting the Persian tribes and founding the Achaemenid Empire. Their culture was influenced by earlier Mesopotamian civilizations, and their religion, Zoroastrianism, shaped Persian governance and traditions.

How large was this Persian Empire?

At its height under Darius I (c. 522–486 BCE), the Achaemenid Empire was the largest empire in the ancient world, spanning approximately 5.5 million square kilometers (2.1 million square miles). It stretched across three continents, including parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe. The empire included territories such as:

Who was Cyrus the Great?

Cyrus the Great was the founder of the Achaemenid Empire, the first Persian Empire. He is best known for uniting the Persian tribes and overthrowing the Median Empire in 550 BCE, establishing Persian dominance in the region. Cyrus expanded his empire by conquering vast territories, including Lydia (modern Turkey), Babylonia (modern Iraq), and parts of Central Asia. He is celebrated for his tolerance and respect for local customs, including allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem after their Babylonian exile. Cyrus is also famous for creating one of the first human rights declarations, the Cyrus Cylinder, which emphasized religious freedom and fair treatment for conquered peoples. His legacy as a just ruler helped establish the foundations for the Persian Empire's later success.

What were Persian Kings, Darius the Great and Xerxes
the Great famous for as rulers?

Darius I, also known as Darius the Great, was famous for his administrative skills and military campaigns that expanded the Achaemenid Empire to its greatest territorial extent. Xerxes I, the son of Darius, is most famous for his role in the second Persian invasion of Greece:

What was the Royal Road?

The Royal Road was an ancient Persian highway that spanned over 2,500 kilometers (1,550 miles), connecting the capital Persepolis with Susa, and further extending to Ephesus in the west (modern-day Turkey). It was established by Darius I during the Achaemenid Empire in the 5th century BCE as part of his efforts to enhance communication and trade across the vast empire.

How did the Persians divide up their Empire?
What was Zoroastrianism?

The Achaemenid Empire was divided into regions called satrapies (provinces). Darius I introduced this system to manage the vast empire effectively. Each satrapy was governed by a satrap (governor) who was appointed by the king. Satraps were responsible for collecting taxes, maintaining order, and defending the region. To prevent any satrap from gaining too much power, the Persian kings employed a system of spies (known as "eyes and ears of the king") to monitor the satraps' actions. This structure allowed for efficient administration and helped maintain control over the empire’s diverse territories.

Zoroastrianism is one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, founded by the prophet Zoroaster (or Zarathustra) in ancient Persia (around 1200 BCE to 600 BCE). It was the dominant religion of the Achaemenid Empire. Key aspects of Zoroastrianism include:

Who is the main historian who wrote on the Greco-
Persian Wars?

The main historian who wrote extensively about the Greco-Persian Wars was Herodotus (c. 484–c. 425 BCE). Known as the "Father of History," Herodotus was an ancient Greek historian who wrote "Histories," a detailed account of the events, causes, and key battles of the Persian Wars. His work provides valuable insight into the cultural, political, and military aspects of the wars, though it also contains some legendary and anecdotal elements. Herodotus's narrative covers major events like the Battle of Marathon, the Battle of Thermopylae, the Battle of Salamis, and the Battle of Plataea, offering a comprehensive perspective on the conflict between the Greek city-states and the Persian Empire.

What revolt in Western Turkey helped spark the first
invasion of Greece by the Persians?

The Ionian Revolt (499–494 BCE) in Western Turkey helped spark the first invasion of Greece by the Persians. The revolt began when the Greek city-states in Ionia, which were under Persian rule, rose up against their Persian overlords. The Ionian cities were supported by Athens and Eretria, which sent ships and soldiers to assist the rebels. Although the revolt was eventually crushed by the Persian forces, King Darius I of Persia sought revenge against Athens for its support of the revolt. This led to Darius launching the first Persian invasion of Greece, culminating in the Battle of Marathon (490 BCE).

Which Persian king sent the first Persian invasion of
Greece in 490 B.C.?

The Persian king who sent the first Persian invasion of Greece in 490 BCE was Darius I. Darius launched the invasion as a response to the Ionian Revolt, in which the Greek city-states of Ionia (in modern-day Turkey) rebelled against Persian rule, with support from Athens and Eretria. After crushing the revolt, Darius sought to punish Athens for its involvement and expand Persian influence in Greece. The invasion culminated in the Battle of Marathon, where the Athenians, despite being outnumbered, achieved a surprising victory over the Persians.

What was the Battle of Marathon?

The Battle of Marathon was a decisive confrontation during the first Persian invasion of Greece. It took place in 490 BCE between the Athenian army and the forces of King Darius I of Persia.

Who was Pheidippides?

Pheidippides was an ancient Greek herald and runner, famously associated with the Battle of Marathon in 490 BCE. According to legend, after the Athenian victory at Marathon, Pheidippides was sent to Athens to deliver the news of the victory.

Who led the Second Invasion of Greece in 480 B.C.?

The Second Invasion of Greece in 480 BCE was led by Xerxes I, the son of Darius I. After the defeat at the Battle of Marathon (490 BCE), Xerxes sought to avenge his father's loss and expand the Persian Empire into Greece. He assembled a massive army and navy to invade Greece once again.

What strategy did the Greeks develop against the
Persians when they formed a military alliance?

When the Greek city-states formed a military alliance during the Second Persian Invasion (480 BCE), they developed a strategy based on unity, defensive positioning, and the use of terrain to counter the superior size and strength of the Persian forces. Key elements of this strategy included:

What occurred at the Battle of Thermopylae?

The Battle of Thermopylae was a key confrontation during Xerxes I's second invasion of Greece in 480 BCE. It took place at a narrow pass called Thermopylae (meaning "Hot Gates"), which was an ideal location for a smaller force to block the advance of a much larger army.

Who was the main Spartan king who led the forces at
Thermopylae?

The main Spartan king who led the forces at the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BCE was King Leonidas I. Leonidas, a member of the Agiad dynasty, is famous for his heroic leadership during the battle, where he led a small Greek force, including his elite 300 Spartans, to make a stand against the much larger Persian army led by Xerxes I.

What naval battle changed the course of the war and
eventually led to the Greeks winning?

The Battle of Salamis (480 BCE) was the naval battle that changed the course of the Greco-Persian Wars and eventually led to a Greek victory.

What was the Delian League set up by Athens and other
states after the Persians were kicked out of Greece?

The Delian League was an alliance formed by Athens and several other Greek city-states after the defeat of the Persian Empire in the Greco-Persian Wars. The league was primarily created to defend against future Persian threats and to secure the freedom of Greek states in the eastern Mediterranean.

What was the Age of Pericles?

The Age of Pericles refers to the period in ancient Athenian history when Pericles was the leading statesman, from approximately 461 BCE until his death in 429 BCE. This era is considered the height of Athenian democracy, culture, and power.

What was the Athenian Empire that rose to prominence
in the Golden Age of Athens?

The Athenian Empire was a dominant maritime and political force that emerged during the Golden Age of Athens, particularly after the Greco-Persian Wars (490–479 BCE). It began as the Delian League, a coalition of Greek city-states created to defend against Persian aggression, but over time, Athens took control of the League, transforming it into an empire. This period is marked by Athens’ immense wealth, power, and cultural achievements.

What was Pericles famous for as the leader of Athens?

Pericles was one of the most influential and celebrated leaders of ancient Athens, particularly during its Golden Age in the 5th century BCE. He is renowned for his leadership, democratic reforms, military strategy, and cultural contributions.

What war caused the downfall of the Athenian Empire
that emerged during the Age of Pericles?

The Peloponnesian War (431–404 BCE) caused the downfall of the Athenian Empire that emerged during the Age of Pericles.

What famous historian wrote about the Peloponnesian
War?

The famous historian who wrote about the Peloponnesian War was Thucydides.

What were the Ancient Olympics? When did they
supposedly begin?

The Ancient Olympic Games were a series of athletic competitions held in Olympia, Greece, in honor of the god Zeus. These games were a major religious and cultural event in ancient Greece and played a significant role in the development of Greek society and its values.

What were some sports or athletic events associated
with the Olympics?

The Ancient Olympic Games featured a variety of athletic events that tested the physical skills of the competitors. While some events changed over time, several were staples throughout the history of the Games.

Stadion (Footrace)
Diaulos (Double Footrace)
Dolichos (Long-Distance Race)
Pentathlon
Wrestling (Pale)
Boxing (Pygmachia)

Why were the Greek Olympics banned?

The Ancient Greek Olympics were banned in 393 CE by the Roman Emperor Theodosius I. The ban came as part of a larger effort to suppress pagan festivals and practices in the Roman Empire as Christianity became the dominant religion.

When were the modern Olympic games established?
Who were some examples of Greek playwrights and
their plays?

The modern Olympic Games were established in 1896 by Pierre de Coubertin, a French educator and historian. He sought to revive the ancient Greek tradition of the Olympics and promote international unity through sport. The first modern Olympics were held in Athens, Greece, and featured 13 countries and 43 events. Since then, the Olympic Games have been held every four years, with some exceptions due to global events like world wars.

Who was considered the greatest Greek Playwright?

The title of greatest Greek playwright is often attributed to Sophocles.

Who was considered the first great philosopher of
Greece?

The first great philosopher of Greece is often considered to be Thales of Miletus (c. 624–546 BCE).

What was the dialectic method that Socrates used to
teach philosophy?

The dialectic method, also known as the Socratic method, was a distinctive form of teaching and philosophical inquiry used by Socrates. It was characterized by a question-and-answer approach designed to stimulate critical thinking, clarify concepts, and uncover underlying assumptions.

What was Socrates best known pupil? What school did
he found in Athens?

Socrates' best-known pupil was Plato (c. 428–348 BCE). Plato is one of the most influential philosophers in Western history and the founder of the Academy in Athens, which is often considered the first institution of higher learning in the Western world.

What were some works of Plato?

Plato wrote many important works that have had a profound influence on Western philosophy. His writings are mostly in the form of dialogues, where characters engage in philosophical discussions, often led by Socrates. Below are some of Plato's most famous works:

The Republic

The Symposium

Phaedo

Phaedrus

Meno

Apology

Who was Plato's greatest student and philosopher?

Plato's greatest student and philosopher was Aristotle (384–322 BCE). Aristotle is considered one of the most influential figures in Western philosophy and made significant contributions to many fields, including ethics, metaphysics, politics, logic, and science.

What fields of study did Aristotle emphasize in his
school The Lyceum that was different?

Aristotle's school, the Lyceum, which he founded in 336 BCE in Athens, emphasized a more empirical and systematic approach to knowledge compared to Plato's Academy. Aristotle's contributions spanned a wide range of fields, and his approach was distinctive in several key ways

Whom did Aristotle teach that became a famous Greek
conqueror?

Aristotle taught Alexander the Great (356–323 BCE), one of the most famous and influential military leaders in history.

Who were the Olympians (or Twelve Olympians) that
took over the Earth according to Greek mythology?
Where did the Olympians live in Greek mythology?

In Greek mythology, the Twelve Olympians were the principal gods who resided on Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece. They were considered the rulers of the gods and held dominion over various aspects of the world, including nature, human affairs, and the heavens.

The Twelve Olympians:

1. Zeus: King of the gods, ruler of the sky, thunder, and justice.

2. Hera: Queen of the gods, goddess of marriage, family, and childbirth, and wife of Zeus.

3. Poseidon: God of the sea, earthquakes, and horses.

4. Demeter: Goddess of agriculture, fertility, and the harvest.

5. Athena: Goddess of wisdom, war strategy, courage, and crafts.

6. Apollo: God of the sun, music, poetry, prophecy, and healing.

7. Artemis: Goddess of the moon, hunting, wilderness, and chastity.

8. Ares: God of war, violence, and bloodshed.

9. Aphrodite: Goddess of love, beauty, and desire.

10. Hephaestus: God of fire, blacksmithing, and craftsmanship.

11. Hermes: God of commerce, thieves, travelers, and messenger of the gods.

12. Hestia: Goddess of the hearth, home, and family (sometimes replaced by Dionysus in some myths).

Who was their main leader along with his two
powerful brothers that divided up the Earth?

The main leader of the Twelve Olympians was Zeus, the king of the gods. After overthrowing his father Cronus and the Titans, Zeus divided the world among himself and his two powerful brothers, Poseidon and Hades.