[Greece] ^Ancient Sparta^

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In the heart of Laconia, where the Eurotas River flowed quietly through the valley, stood the formidable city-state of Sparta, a Greek city-state with an oligarchic and militaristic political organization. It was ruled by two kings, a council of elders (gerousia), a popular assembly, and five ephors, who controlled royal power. Society was focused on war: citizens (Spartans) were warriors from a young age, while helots, a slave class, worked the land. Spartans valued discipline, asceticism, and sacrifice for the good of the state. Unlike other Greek city-states, Spartan women enjoyed greater freedom and rights: they could own land, receive an education, and actively participate in public life. The year was 420 BC, and the sun mercilessly beat down on the red clay roof tiles.