Download October 17, 2008

October 17, 2008
The Rise of Athenian Imperialism
Summary of Lecture:
• Aftermath of the Persian Wars
• the Delian League (478-461 BC)
• The Fleet of Athens
• Athens circa 450 BC
• Athenian Building Projects
• Read Ancient Greece, p. 225-235
1. Aftermath of Persian Wars
• Panhellenic Conference at Corinth (481)
• Greek Identity (language, region, religion, politics)
• Spartan and Athenian Collaboration
• Remaining Threat in Aegean
2. Delian League
• Pausanias (Sparta) recalled; domestic struggles
• Athenians requested to lead
• Delos: central, Ionian
• 200 members meet at Delos
• Athenian fleet critical; Athenian commander
• Athenian treasurers ensure levies
Objectives of Delian League:
• Clear Persian army from Thrace, Macedonia, Asia Minor
• Patrol Aegean sea, strengthening the bond of Ionian states
• Protect colonies by ridding the routes of pirates
3. The Fleet of Athens
Delian League becomes Athenian Empire
• Fleet favours Athenian interests
• 462: Thasos cannot withdraw (mining, timber interests): give up fleet, pay annual tribute,
vassal of league
• 448: Peace treaty of Kallias: Persians withdraw from Aegean
• Treasury moved from Delos to Athens
4. Athens circa 450 BC
• Impact of the Delian League:
• Thetes: rowers, ship-building, merchantmen
• Increased trade and commerce
• Influx of wealth
• Building program
Some facts about Athens c. 450 BC
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Population c. 300,000
35,000 metics( resident aliens)
Active citizens: 40,000 men
23,000 hoplite soldiers
50% of population lives between Athens and Piraeus
25% of citizens paid for political involvement (jurors, magistrates, etc.)
Annual work-days: 250-280. Salary: 1 drachma p/d (cost of living: 125 drachmas per year)
Architects, stone-masons, boat-builders, businessmen
5. Athenian Building Projects
• Piraeus fortified
• Long walls strengthened
Major temples constructed