Rebellion (Causes)

One of the main causes of the war was growing resentment against Athenian imperialism. Many allies in the Delian League felt that Athens controlled them rather than protected them. When cities like Naxos and Thasos attempted to leave the League, Athens reacted by sending its navy to crush the rebellions and force them back into the alliance.

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Small rebellions turned into major political tension. Corinth accused Athens of becoming a “tyrant city,” reflecting the fear spreading across Greece. Eventually, Sparta stepped in and framed itself as the defender of Greek independence.