What was the primary cause of the initial conflict between the Persian Empire and the Greek city-states?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: The Ionian Revolt supported by Athens and Eretria
The Ionian Revolt (499–493 BCE) began when Greek city-states in Asia Minor rebelled against Persian rule. Athens and Eretria sent ships to assist, and the rebels burned Sardis, the Persian provincial capital. When Darius I crushed the revolt, he vowed vengeance against Athens and Eretria, directly triggering the first Persian invasion of mainland Greece.
Keep practicing
More Persian Wars questions
- At the Battle of Marathon (490 BCE), which Athenian general is credited with the tactical decision to thin the center and strengthen the wi…
- Which Persian King led the second, much larger invasion of Greece in 480 BCE, ten years after the defeat at Marathon?
- The Battle of Thermopylae is best remembered for the heroic stand of 300 Spartans and their allies led by which king?
- What was the strategic purpose of the Greek naval force at Artemisium during the Battle of Thermopylae?
- Following the defeat at Thermopylae, the Persians reached and performed what significant action in Athens?
- Which Athenian politician and general convinced the Greeks to fight at sea at the Battle of Salamis?