When people think of ancient Greece, images of huge temples, spectacular
battles, and extraordinary mythical stories usually pop into their heads. Although all of
these aspects are huge factors of Greece, it took a excellent military army to protect the
city and all of its wonders. Ancient Greek military was always improving, this was shown
through their advanced war technology, innovated strategies, and battles.
The war technology in ancient Greece was highly developed, this was shown
through their sophisticated training methods, and weapons. The Spartan infantry was
very strong and and well disciplined. They wore matching uniforms, and drilled
together. This shows that they were advanced in their war techniques because this type
of training is still used in modern day (Roberts and Barret, p.105). The Greeks also
learned from different groups, such as the Dorians. The Dorians were a group of people
that conquered Greece, resulting in the Dark Ages. The Greeks had some types of bronze
weapons before Dorian invasion, but quickly learned how to improve them with Dorian
influence. They also learned how to organize an army from the Dorians. (Donn). Having
sophisticated training methods and weapons helped the Greeks develop clever and
intellectual battle strategies.
The Greeks had excellent war strategies that differed based on their enemies. For
example, if the city that they were attempting to conquer had high walls, the Greeks
would use a special weapon to break them down. They would also surround cities and
wait until the citizens ran out of food and supplies. This proves that the Greeks were
advanced because a modified version of this war strategy is still used today (History
Source LLC). One of the most notable leaders of Greece that was known for being a
military genius was Alexander the Great, the king of Macedonia, who conquered the
massive Persian Empire (BBC). Although the Greeks were highly innovative when
creating their weapons and strategies, all of these factors were put to test during their
many battles.
The ancient Greeks were very persistent during battle, and used their heads to
beat many formidable opponents. There were many battles that the Greeks showed off
their remarkable skills and talents, but one of the most renowned is the Greco-Persian
Wars. The vastly outnumbered Greeks won the war, even though Persia was a huge
empire with 30,000 soldiers and 1,000 calvary. The Greeks used persistence and
strategy, and their effects paid off, resulting in a Greeks victory (Ancient History
Encyclopedia website). The Athenians and the Spartans also had many conflicts, and the
two city-states were enemies. One of the biggest conflicts that Athens and Sparta had
was the Peloponnesian war. Sparta was the victor, but Spartan reign was short, due to
King Phillip of Macedonia conquering the war torn Greece. He reigned for a while,
passing his rule to one of the most formidable Greeks leaders of all; Alexander the Great
(History Alive!, p. 214).
In conclusion, ancient Greek military was always improving, this was shown
through the advanced war technology, and innovative strategies and battles that they
expertly developed. Ancient Greece influenced many aspects of our military today, from
battle strategies, to our training for our soldiers, and the way we honor members of the
military. Greece has influenced our society today, and will continue to inspire many,
many civilizations to come.