In this episode, we’ll explore the critical decade between the Greek victory at the Battle of Marathon in 490 BC and Xerxes’ invasion of Greece in 480 BC—a period that shaped the course of the Greco-Persian Wars. Following their defeat at Marathon, the Persians, under King Darius I, began preparing for a renewed campaign, but internal challenges, including rebellions and Darius’ death in 486 BC, delayed their plans.

With the ascension of Xerxes I, the Persian Empire moved decisively. Xerxes crushed revolts in Egypt and Babylonia and set his sights on Greece, organizing one of the largest invasion forces in ancient history to fulfill his father’s uncompleted ambitions of conquest.

Meanwhile, growing awareness of the Persian threat pushed some Greek city-states toward greater unity. Despite internal rivalries, alliances began to form, with Athens and Sparta taking the lead in preparing for the storm to come. But would this fledgling cooperation be enough to stand against Xerxes’ colossal forces?

Let's find out.

Contents:

00:00 Recap and Introduction
01:07 Darius' Legacy
04:07 Xerxes becomes King
06:38 The Great Debate: Mardonius
15:47 The Great Debate: Artabanus
19:45 On to War!
27:15 The Grand Army of Xerxes
35:07 Gelon of Sicily and the Search for Allies
45:52 Thank You and Patrons

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