The structure of Spartan society- Classics 4.2

• What was the primary reason for the success of the Spartan army by the fifth century BC?


  It was due to the unique structure of Spartan society.
• Which regions did Sparta conquer and subjugate around two centuries before the fifth century BC?


  Laconia and Messenia
• What happened to the land after Sparta conquered Laconia and Messenia?


  The land was reassigned to Spartan citizens in allotments.
• What were the native inhabitants of Messenia and Laconia known as after being enslaved?

  Helots
• What was the role of helots in Spartan society?


  They worked for Spartan citizens and handed over a portion of their produce.
• How did the allotments of land affect the Spartan citizens' military obligations?


  It allowed them to focus on physical exercise and military readiness rather than full-time soldiering.
• What was the significance of the helots' presence in Spartan society?


  They posed a significant danger of rebellion against the Spartans.
• What major event occurred involving the helots after an earthquake in Sparta?


  The helots engaged in a major revolt.
• How did the Spartans manage their enslaved population compared to other Greek city-states?


  They controlled communities of native Greeks rather than importing slaves.
• What was the impact of the helot revolt on Spartan military resources?


  It forced Spartans to use their military to suppress the helots instead of fighting external wars.
• What term refers to the class of people living in scattered, fertile parts of Spartan territory?

  Perioeci
• What rights did the perioeci have in Spartan society?


  They could run their own communities and were allowed to be craftsmen and traders.
• How did the perioeci contribute to the Spartan army?


  They were called up to fight alongside Spartans during wars.
• What are the key components of Spartan society by the fifth century BC?


  • Conquered Laconia and Messenia
  • Enslaved native population known as helots
  • Allotments of land for Spartan citizens
  • Perioeci living in scattered parts, allowed to trade and craft
  • Military readiness of Spartan citizens
• What were the strengths and weaknesses of the Spartan military system?

  Strengths:

  • Highly trained citizen soldiers
  • Integration of perioeci into military

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Dependence on helots for labor
  • Constant threat of helot revolts