In the ancient region of Laconia, located in the southeastern Peloponnese, the legendary city-state of Sparta evolved into a dominant military force in Greece. The early formation of this unique society began around the 10th century BC. Previously known as ‘Lacedaemon’, it was originally inhabited by the Dorians, one of the four major ethnic groups of ancient Greece.
Accounts stipulate that Sparta was established jointly by Procles and Eurysthenes, the Heracleidae twins who were descendants of Heracles. Legend claims that Lycurgus, an important figure in Spartan progress, contributed significantly to its structural and cultural development. Under his reputed legal code, a dual kingship served as the governing system, and a rigorous military-centered upbringing became the standard, forging an elite warrior culture.
Over time, the city-state grew through the conquest and subjugation of neighbouring territories, swelling its population significantly with helots, the subjugated peoples who were enlisted into serfdom. These roots embedded deeply in Sparta’s core, shaping a society notorious for its discipline, dedication to military prowess, and a unique societal structure which set it apart from other city-states.
#1. Where was the ancient city-state of Sparta located?
B is the answer. The text mentions that Sparta was located in the southeastern Peloponnese, in the region of Laconia.
#2. What was Sparta's original name?
C is the answer. The text states that Sparta was previously known as ‘Lacedaemon’.
#3. Who were the founders of Sparta?
C is the answer. The text states that Sparta was established jointly by Procles and Eurysthenes, who were Heracleidae twins.
#4. Who was Lycurgus in Spartan history?
B is the answer. The text mentions that legend claims that Lycurgus, an important figure in Spartan progress, contributed significantly to its structural and cultural development.
#5. Who were the helots in Spartan society?
C is the answer. The text states that helots were the subjugated peoples who were enlisted into serfdom after Sparta conquered neighbouring territories.
#6. What set Sparta apart from other city-states?
B is the answer. According to the text, Sparta was notorious for its discipline, dedication to military prowess, and a unique societal structure, which set it apart from other city-states.
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