The Ancients Fall of Sparta
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Jan 8, 2026 
Dr. Roel Konijnendijk, a scholar of Spartan history, and Dr. Owen Rees, an expert on ancient Greece, delve into the rapid decline of Sparta after its peak in 404 BC. They explore pivotal battles, like Leuctra, and the rise of Thebes, discussing tactical innovations that reshaped military strategies. Key missteps, such as Spartan overreach and internal strife, are analyzed, revealing a complex picture of a once-dominant power crumbling under pressure. The conversation highlights Sparta's lasting reputation as defiant, despite its political fade.
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Backing The Wrong Persian Prince
- Sparta backed Cyrus in his bid for the Persian throne and therefore backed the wrong side.
- Cyrus died at Cunaxa, leaving Sparta diplomatically compromised with Artaxerxes II.
Oligarchies Without Staying Power
- Sparta installed narrow oligarchies like the Thirty in Athens but lacked will to sustain them.
- Internal factionalism (e.g., between Pausanias and Lysander) undermined Spartan control.
Land Strength, Naval Defeat
- The Corinthian War split into land and sea struggles where Sparta held ground on land.
- Sparta lost decisively at sea (e.g., Knidos), ending its Aegean ambitions.