Ancient Greeks - Difference Between Athens and Sparta

Athens;

- the capital city of Greece

- the largest city in Greece

- in the Attica region

Sparta;

- southern end of the central Laconian region

Athens;

- forward looking

- democratic

Sparta;

- all about war and military strength

- oligarchic

Athens;

- not very military-based

- service in military was optional

Sparta;

- military service was mandatory

- military training from a very young age

- life revolved around war, fighting, and physical training

Athens;

- dependent on trade and agriculture

Sparta;

- dependent on agriculture only

Athens;

- democracy

Sparta;

- oligarchy

Athens;

- wanted control over more land

- wanted control over other city states

Sparta;

- provided army whenever required

- otherwise content