Which social class in Spartan territory consisted of unfree laborers who were tied to the land and significantly outnumbered the citizens?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Helots
Helots were a subjugated population, primarily from conquered Messenia and Laconia, who were bound to the land and provided the agricultural labor that sustained Sparta. They vastly outnumbered citizens, which forced Spartans to maintain constant military vigilance — including the Crypteia — to suppress revolts.
Keep practicing
More Spartan Society questions
- The Spartan government was a unique mix of political systems, but it was primarily characterized by the rule of a small group of elite citi…
- Sparta was unusual in the Greek world for having two kings at the same time. This system is known as a:
- Who was the semi-mythical lawgiver credited with establishing the social and political institutions of Sparta, including the Great Rhetra?
- The 'Gerousia' was a powerful body in the Spartan government consisting of how many members, including the two kings?
- What was the primary role of the five 'Ephors' in Spartan society?
- Which group of people in Spartan-controlled territory were free non-citizens who worked as merchants and artisans?