Greek-Persian War Strategies and Outcomes

In 480 BC, Persia, led by King Xerxes, launched a massive campaign against Greece. Despite their superior numbers, the Persians faced fierce resistance from the Greeks, particularly the Spartans, at the Battle of Thermopylae. The Greeks, led by King Leonidas, utilized strategic defenses and short supply lines to hold off the Persians for several days. Ultimately, a Greek traitor revealed a secret pass, allowing the Persians to outflank the Greeks. The Spartans and their allies made a heroic last stand, allowing the rest of the Greek forces to retreat. Although Athens was temporarily occupied, the Persians were eventually defeated at the Battle of Plataea.

Who was the Persian king leading the invasion against Greece in 480 BC?

• King Xerxes

• King Philip

• King Leonidas

• King Darius

What was a key difference between Persian and Greek military strategies?

• Greeks relied on cavalry

• Persians used phalanx formations

• Greeks used light infantry

• Persians excelled in cavalry-based warfare

Why did the Spartan Council of Elders initially refuse to support the war?

• Alliance with Persia

• Fear of Persian retaliation

• Because of a lack of resources

• Due to religious observances

What was the main advantage of the Greek hoplites over the Persians?

• Better cavalry

• Superior numbers

• Heavier armor and shields

• Advanced weaponry

How did the Greeks manage to conceal their numbers from the Persians initially?

• By wearing Persian uniforms

• By spreading false rumors

• By using smoke and light from campfires

• By hiding in the mountains

What tactic did the Greeks use against the Persian Immortals on the second day?

• A naval attack

• A night ambush

• A feigned retreat

• A direct charge

Who revealed the secret pass to the Persians, allowing them to outflank the Greeks?

• A Spartan soldier

• A captured Greek general

• A Persian spy

• A Greek farmer

What was the primary reason some Greeks chose to stay and fight on the third day?

• To seek glory in battle

• To protect their families

• To negotiate with the Persians

• To delay the Persians for the retreating army

What happened to Athens after the Battle of Thermopylae?

• It was abandoned by its citizens

• It was burned to the ground by the Persians

• It became a Persian ally

• It was fortified and defended successfully

What was the ultimate outcome of the Persian invasion of Greece?

• Persian victory and occupation of Greece

• A peace treaty between Persia and Greece

• A stalemate with no clear winner

• Greek victory at the Battle of Plataea