Xerxes' Invasion and Spartan Defense

The Battle of Thermopylae was a pivotal conflict where King Leonidas and 300 Spartans made a heroic stand against the vast Persian army led by Xerxes. Despite being vastly outnumbered, the Spartans' strategic use of the narrow pass at Thermopylae allowed them to hold off the Persians for several days. The battle became legendary for its demonstration of courage and sacrifice, inspiring Greek unity and resistance against Persian invasion. The story of the 300 Spartans became a symbol of bravery and defiance, influencing Greek morale and contributing to the eventual Greek victories in the Persian Wars.

What was the primary motivation for Xerxes' invasion of Greece?

• To establish trade routes

• To capture Greek resources

• To avenge his father's defeat

• To expand the Persian Empire

Which Greek city-state initially responded to Athens' plea for help against the Persians?

• Argos

• Sparta

• Thebes

• Corinth

What strategic advantage did the narrow pass at Thermopylae provide the Greeks?

• It negated the Persian numerical advantage

• It was close to their supply lines

• It allowed them to use their cavalry effectively

• It provided a direct route to Athens

What formation did the Greeks use to effectively defend against the Persian forces?

• Phalanx formation

• Square formation

• Line formation

• Circular formation

Who betrayed the Greeks by revealing a hidden path to the Persians?

• Persian spy

• Athenian general

• Spartan soldier

• Local shepherd

What was Leonidas' decision when faced with the Persian encirclement?

• To surrender to the Persians

• To negotiate with Xerxes

• To make a final stand with his Spartans

• To retreat with all his forces

How did the Spartans continue to fight after losing their weapons?

• They used bows and arrows

• They used captured Persian weapons

• They fought with their bare hands

• They retreated to higher ground

What was the impact of the Spartans' sacrifice on the Greek populace?

• It demoralized the Greeks

• It caused internal conflicts among city-states

• It inspired more Greeks to join the fight

• It led to immediate Greek surrender

What was erected at Thermopylae to honor the fallen Spartans?

• A memorial garden

• A stone monument in the shape of a lion

• A temple dedicated to Ares

• A statue of Leonidas

What was the ultimate outcome of the Persian Wars for Greece?

• Persian victory and occupation

• Greek victory and independence

• Stalemate with no clear winner

• Division of Greece into Persian territories