Battle of Marathon
In 490 BCE, the Persian Empire under King Darius I sent a massive invasion force to punish Athens for supporting a revolt in Persian-controlled territory. The Athenians, outnumbered roughly 2-to-1, met the Persians on the plain of Marathon, about 25 miles from Athens. Under the brilliant strategy of General Miltiades, the Athenians strengthened their flanks and enveloped the Persian center. The result was a stunning victory: the Persians lost about 6,400 men while the Athenians lost only 192. According to legend, a messenger named Pheidippides ran the 26 miles from Marathon to Athens to announce the victory, inspiring the modern marathon race. The battle preserved Athenian democracy and proved that the mighty Persian Empire could be defeated.
Key Takeaways
Athenian democracy was saved from Persian conquest
Proved that a smaller, motivated citizen army could defeat a larger professional force
Inspired the modern marathon race (26.2 miles)