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The Boeotian Revolt of 457 BCE - A Spartan Intervention
In 457 BCE, a significant conflict unfolded in central Greece involving the region of Boeotia and the powerful city-state of Sparta. This event occurred during the broader context of the First Peloponnesian War (460-445 BCE), a period of tension between Athens and Sparta, along with their respective allies.
Following the Persian Wars, Athens sought to expand its influence in mainland Greece. By the early 450s BCE, Athens had gained control over Boeotia, a traditionally independent region northwest of Attica. The Athenians supported democratic factions in Boeotian cities, weakening the traditional oligarchic leadership.
In 457 BCE, Boeotian oligarchs, resentful of Athenian domination, launched a revolt. The key battle took place at Tanagra, where Sparta intervened on behalf of the Boeotian rebels. The Spartans, led by their king Nicomedes, marched into central Greece under the pretext of assisting the region of Doris (a small Spartan ally). However, their true objective was to challenge Athenian power in Boeotia.
At Tanagra, a major battle was fought between:
- Sparta and its allies (including Boeotian oligarchs)
- Athens and its allies (including Thessalian cavalry)
The battle was hard-fought, but Sparta emerged victorious. However, the Spartans did not press their advantage further and soon withdrew back to the Peloponnese.
Despite their defeat at Tanagra, Athens quickly regrouped. Just two months later, the Athenians defeated the Boeotians at the Battle of Oenophyta, reasserting control over the region. However, Boeotian resistance persisted, and by 447 BCE, the Boeotians successfully expelled Athenian influence, reestablishing their independence under oligarchic rule.
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