Outbreak of the Peloponnesian War Flashcards
(12 cards)
What did Thucydides report about the people of Aegina?
They sided with Corinth when they complained to Sparta about being denied their independence in violation of a treaty.
Aegina had been defeated in the first Peloponnesian war and was subject to Athens.
What is known about the terms of the treaty between Athens and Aegina?
The terms are unknown.
Aegina’s significance was less than the first two complaints and the Megarian decree.
What local conflict occurred in the late 430s on the Ambracian Gulf?
A conflict between Ambracia, Amphilochian Argos, and the Acaranians.
Ambracia had Corinthian connections.
Who did Amphilochian Argos and the Acaranians ask for help during their conflict?
They asked for help from Athens.
Athens intervened in the conflict.
What was Corinth’s complaint against Sparta?
Corinth complained about Sparta’s ineffectiveness in standing up to Athenian expansion.
This complaint led to increased tensions between the city-states.
What did King Archidamus II caution against?
He cautioned against hasty action in going to war with Athens.
He believed Sparta could not defeat Athens due to lack of navy and resources.
What did Archidamus identify as necessary for Sparta to defeat Athens?
- Athens’ allies in revolt
- Sparta having an equal navy
- Persian support (financially at least)
These conditions were critical for a successful conflict against Athens.
Who opposed King Archidamus II’s cautionary stance?
Sthenelaidas, one of the ephors.
His nationalistic rhetoric swayed the Spartan people.
What was the outcome of Sthenelaidas’ speech?
The Spartans voted for war.
Sthenelaidas did not address Archidamus’ concerns effectively.
What did Corinth reiterate in their complaints?
Corinth pointed to Athens’ impact on the economic vitality of other Greek city-states.
This was part of their justification for conflict.
What was Athens’ final offer of peace to Sparta?
Athens would give the Greeks their freedom if they renounced their empire, with no trade, tax, or tribute.
This offer conflicted with the 30-year peace treaty.
Why could Athens not accept the final offer of peace?
Pericles strongly opposed the terms, believing Athens could win a war.
This refusal marked a significant escalation in the conflict.
