Despite being known for their formidable military, Sparta has actually suffered as many if not more famous defeats as they have won victories in battle. Therefore, we ask, “Is Sparta’s much celebrated military actually overrated?” Please examine the list of their battle record below and let us know your thoughts in the comments using Disqus!
Digging Deeper: 22 Spartan Defeats
In 669/8 BC, the Argives defeated Sparta in the First Battle of Hysiae.
In c. 550 BC, the Arcadians defeated Sparta in the Battle of the Fetters.
On either August 20 or September 8-10, 480 BC, the Persians defeated the Spartans in the Battle of Thermopylae. Greek historian Herodotus (c. 484–425 BC) claimed the Greek city-states had a total strength of 5,200+ versus 2,500,000 Persians in the battle, with the Greeks suffering 4,000 casualties and losses, including the death of Spartan king Leonidas I (r. 489–480 BC), versus ~20,000 Persian casualties and losses. Nevertheless, the Greek city-states (including Sparta) ultimately won the war against Persia.
