Helots

Definition

Helots were a subjugated population in ancient Sparta, primarily comprised of people from Messenia, who were forced to work the land and serve the Spartan citizens. This unique system of serfdom played a crucial role in supporting the militaristic and austere society of Sparta by providing agricultural labor, enabling Spartans to focus on their military training and governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Helots were crucial to the Spartan economy, as they worked the land and provided food, which allowed Spartan citizens to dedicate themselves to military training.
2. The relationship between Spartans and helots was marked by tension; Spartans viewed helots as a threat due to their potential for rebellion.
3. Helots were often subjected to harsh treatment, including regular mistreatment and even public humiliation, to maintain control and discourage uprisings.
4. During times of war or crisis, Spartans could declare war on the helots, effectively granting them the right to kill any helot without consequence, a practice known as 'the declaration of war on helots'.
5. The large number of helots compared to Spartan citizens created a constant fear of revolt, leading to measures like the secret police called the Krypteia, which aimed to suppress helot dissent.

Review Questions

• How did the system of helotry impact Spartan society and its military focus?
  • The system of helotry was integral to Spartan society as it provided a steady labor force for agriculture, allowing Spartan citizens to focus exclusively on military training and governance. This dependence on helots helped shape a society where martial prowess was valued above all else. The helots' labor ensured that Spartans could maintain their lifestyle and military readiness, which was critical for their dominance in Greece.
• Discuss the ways in which the relationship between Spartans and helots influenced Spartan policies and governance.
  • The relationship between Spartans and helots heavily influenced Spartan policies, as the ruling class implemented strict measures to control the helot population due to fears of rebellion. This included harsh treatment, surveillance through the Krypteia, and the declaration of war on helots during times of unrest. The constant threat posed by the large helot population led Spartans to prioritize military preparedness and develop a highly militarized state to protect against potential uprisings.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of the helot system on Spartan society and its eventual decline.
  • The long-term implications of the helot system on Spartan society were profound, as it created a dependency on an oppressed class for agricultural production while simultaneously fostering an environment of fear and repression. This reliance contributed to social tensions that undermined Spartan stability over time. As external pressures mounted from rival city-states and internal discontent grew among both citizens and helots, the very structure that once fortified Sparta began to erode, leading to its eventual decline in power and influence in ancient Greece.

Related terms

Sparta: A prominent city-state in ancient Greece known for its military-oriented society and rigorous training of citizens to become elite soldiers.

Messenia: The region conquered by Sparta, where most helots originated, providing fertile land for agricultural production.

Agoge: The rigorous education and training program that all male Spartan citizens underwent to become skilled warriors.