Eretria

Definition

Eretria was an ancient Greek city-state located on the island of Euboea, significant for its role in the early stages of the Persian Wars. It was a major naval power and a key ally of Athens, notably participating in the Ionian Revolt against Persian rule, which set the stage for larger conflicts between Greece and Persia.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eretria played a crucial role in the Ionian Revolt by sending ships and troops to support the Ionian cities rebelling against Persian control.
2. The city's participation in the revolt led to a retaliatory attack by Persian King Darius I, who sought to punish Eretria for its defiance.
3. In 490 BCE, Eretria was besieged and captured by Persian forces during their campaign against Greece, effectively removing it as a threat to Persian control.
4. Eretria's fall marked a significant moment in the lead-up to the larger conflict between Greece and Persia, influencing other city-states' decisions regarding alliances.
5. The subsequent destruction of Eretria exemplified the brutal tactics employed by the Persians to suppress resistance among Greek city-states.

Review Questions

• How did Eretria's involvement in the Ionian Revolt influence its fate during the Persian Wars?
  • Eretria's support of the Ionian Revolt against Persian rule was pivotal as it marked their commitment to resisting Persian domination. This involvement not only placed Eretria directly in conflict with Persia but also led to severe repercussions when King Darius I sought to punish them. Their participation united them with other Greek states against a common enemy but ultimately made them a target for retribution when Persia launched campaigns into Greece.
• Discuss the consequences of Eretria's capture by Persian forces in 490 BCE for the overall strategy of the Persian Wars.
  • The capture of Eretria had significant implications for the Persian strategy in the Persian Wars. By eliminating Eretria as a military threat, Persia was able to focus its resources on subduing Athens and other Greek city-states. This victory also served as a demonstration of power that aimed to intimidate other Greek cities into submission, although it ultimately galvanized Greek unity and resistance instead.
• Evaluate the role of Eretria within the broader context of Greek resistance against Persia and how its fate impacted later battles like Marathon.
  • Eretria's role as an early supporter of resistance against Persia set a precedent for Greek unity in opposition to foreign invasion. The fall of Eretria highlighted the immediate threat posed by Persia and helped rally other city-states around Athens, leading to the eventual mobilization for battles like Marathon. This situation created a sense of urgency among the Greeks that fostered alliances and strategies that were crucial in achieving victory at Marathon, showcasing how Eretria's experiences directly influenced Greek military and political dynamics during the wars.

Related terms

Ionian Revolt:

A revolt by the Ionian city-states against Persian rule that took place from 499 to 494 BCE, which was one of the key events leading to the Persian Wars.

Battle of Marathon:

A significant battle fought in 490 BCE between the Athenian army and Persian forces, where the Greeks achieved a surprising victory.

Delian League:

An alliance formed in 478 BCE by several Greek city-states, led by Athens, to continue fighting against Persia and ensure mutual defense.