Causes of the Peloponnesian War
- Created by: Rhian
- Created on: 14-03-14 17:44
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Sparta’s constant aggression towards Athens
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The Spartans were in many ways the most convenient enemies that Athens could have had
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The office of Strateges (‘general’ commands both sea and land) was an elected post, normally one from each ten tribes. There were no limits on re-elections. Generals could be fined and deposed of by the Assembly. This happened after the 460’s BC.
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Low standard of military security
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It was recommended to have a small number of generals with full powers, ‘so that things which ought to be secret can be kept concealed’ (Th.6.72.5)
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Breaches of security (this meant less likely to trust each other)
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Sparta lost control of allies in the central and northern Peloponnese, this was depended on by Sparta to keep them as a great power in Greece
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Without her Peloponnesian allies, Sparta could not hope to continue sending large armies…
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