History in the Making Rob Sims

Greece, as we recognize it, begins where the Dark Age ends. We meet some of the earliest known reformers that drop the first hints of democracy in reaction to the stresses of coming out of the Dark Age. This episode covers approximately 1200 BC – 594 BC.

Democracy emerges in clear view from the shadows of history but not everybody welcomes it. The various political sides of Athens try to find a governing balance while threats of civil war force reform though rumors, coups, and occasional theatrics worthy of Greek play. This episode covers approximately 594 BC – 500 BC.

Sparta is more than spears, although there are also plenty of spears. We wade through the murky history of Sparta while watching their migration into Greece. As much as we think of Spartans as Greek, they claim their heritage from the north… and from Hercules. This episode covers approximately 1,200 BC – 500 BC. As a side note, I have a cold so this episode sounds partially underwater at times. Learn more about your ad choices.

International politics suck a willing Athens into tangling with Persia while Sparta considers converting the Athenian government by force. With all this at stake, the political juggernauts of Athens come to the front as Themistocles and Aristides face off in the Assembly. The stage is now set through internal and external strife for Athens to burst, or trip, onto the world stage. Rivalries begin to intensify both within Athens and internationally. This episode covers approximately 508 BC – 499 BC.

An emboldened Athens sails across the Aegean to support revolts against Persia. In doing so they eventually gain the undivided attention of the world’s superpower. The international troubles drive a cunning and battle-hardened leader back to Athens, Miltiades. We see the divisions that are inherent to democracy and the brutal tactics of Cleomenes, one of the kings of Sparta. This episode covers approximately 500 BC – 490 BC.

The gloves come off. Themistocles and Aristides face off in the Assembly. Distant scuffles between Athens and Persia flame up into full scale war. The Persian wave crashes on the beaches of Marathon while Athens, with the small town of Plataea, brace to endure it. The world is beginning to be reordered. This episode covers approximately 494 BC – 481 BC.