Perikles & The Peloponnesian War

These flashcards cover important vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on Perikles and the Peloponnesian War.

Megarian Decree

An Athenian policy banning Megara from Athenian markets and ports.

Arbitration

A peaceful method of resolving disputes through a neutral decision.

Imperialism (Athenian context)

Expansion and control over other Greek city-states through empire.

Strategos

An elected general in Athens responsible for military leadership.

Peloponnesian League

Alliance of Greek states led by Sparta.

Naval Empire

A state whose power is based on control of the sea, exemplified by Athens.

Empire as Tyranny

Perikles’ idea that Athenian rule is harsh but cannot be abandoned safely.

Metics

Foreign residents in Athens who contributed economically and militarily.

Plague (Athenian context)

A deadly disease that weakened Athens during the war.

Fickleness of the Mob

The tendency of democratic citizens to quickly change opinions.

Sparta's Threat to Athens

They demanded Athens remove restrictions and grant independence to Greek states.

Perikles’ Main Advice

Do not give in to Spartan demands and prepare for war while relying on naval strength.

Perikles’ Belief on Compromise

Giving in to small demands would lead to greater loss of freedom.

Perikles’ War Strategy

Avoid land battles, rely on navy, protect the city, and use the empire’s resources.

Perikles’ View on Spartan Weakness

Sparta lacked money, naval power, and the ability to sustain long wars.

Importance of Athens’ Navy

Allowed Athens to attack enemies, control trade, and maintain its empire.

Perikles’ Advice on Abandoning Land

To avoid Spartan land attacks and focus on naval superiority.

Athenian Anger at Perikles

They blamed him for their hardships during the war and plague.

Perikles’ Response to Criticism

Citizens must prioritize the state over personal suffering.

After Perikles’ Death

Athens abandoned his strategy, leading to poor decisions and defeat.

Refusing Spartan Demands

Showed Athens would not submit, escalating tensions into conflict.

Significance of Perikles’ Strategy

It could have secured victory if consistently followed.

Athens’ Empire as Strength and Weakness

Provided power but created enemies and fear among other states.

Significance of the Plague in War

Weakened Athens physically and mentally, reducing morale.

Democracy's Problems During War

Citizens made emotional decisions and turned against strong leadership.

Athens’ Loss of the War

Abandonment of Perikles’ strategy and weakness due to internal conflict.

Athens vs. Sparta in Warfare

Athens relied on navy and wealth; Sparta relied on land army and discipline.

Perikles vs. Later Athenian Leaders

Perikles was rational; later leaders were influenced by public opinion.

Theme of Leadership

Strong leadership leads to success; weak leadership leads to failure.

Role of Democracy in Athens’ Downfall

Public opinion caused unstable decisions and poor strategy.