Reaction: How Athens and Sparta Escalated the War

Once the war began in 431 BCE, both sides reacted aggressively. Athens pulled citizens into the Long Walls for protection. A deadly plague struck, killing tens of thousands including Pericles, weakening leadership and morale.

Sparta invaded Attica repeatedly and eventually built a navy with Persian help. Both sides escalated the conflict, pushing Greece into deeper instability.

Major Events (Reaction)

Athens fortified the Long Walls to protect its population during the war.

"We are a model to others." — Thucydides

Multiple Perspectives