old rival of athens crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "old rival of athens crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
SPARTA: The ancient Greek city-state renowned for its military discipline and long-standing rivalry with Athens, culminating in the Peloponnesian War.
More About "old rival of athens crossword clue"
The rivalry between Athens and Sparta is one of the most famous and impactful conflicts in ancient history. These two dominant city-states represented contrasting ideologies and societal structures. Athens, a naval power, was the birthplace of democracy, flourishing in trade, philosophy, and the arts. Sparta, on the other hand, was a formidable land-based military oligarchy, prioritizing strict discipline, physical prowess, and a highly structured warrior society.
Their competition for hegemony over the Greek world eventually erupted into the devastating Peloponnesian War (431–404 BC), which profoundly reshaped the political landscape of ancient Greece. Sparta ultimately emerged victorious, but the conflict weakened all Greek city-states, paving the way for the rise of Macedonia. Understanding this pivotal rivalry is key not only for historical context but also for solving many crossword clues related to ancient Greece.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Leverage Historical Knowledge: Many crossword clues, like "old rival of athens," draw upon general history. Brushing up on major historical figures, events, and relationships can provide a significant advantage.
- Consider Geographic Context: If the clue involves a place, think about its neighbors, rivals, or significant historical events tied to that location. For Athens, thinking about other major Greek city-states is a natural next step.
- Check Word Length: Always pay attention to the requested number of letters. This is often the most critical hint, helping you eliminate possibilities or confirm your initial guesses.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: Clues like "rival" might suggest looking for words that mean opponent, adversary, or even historical antithesis.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main reason for the rivalry between Athens and Sparta?
The rivalry between Athens and Sparta stemmed from their fundamentally different political systems and societal values. Athens was a democratic, naval power with a focus on trade and culture, while Sparta was an oligarchic, land-based military state. Their struggle for dominance in ancient Greece eventually led to the devastating Peloponnesian War.
How can historical clues like 'old rival of athens' be solved in crosswords?
Historical clues often require general knowledge. For clues referencing ancient civilizations, thinking about major cities, figures, or events of that era can be helpful. 'Rival' often points to well-known conflicts or opposing forces. Context clues within the puzzle can also narrow down possibilities.
Are there other historical rivals commonly found in crosswords?
Yes, crosswords frequently feature historical rivalries. Examples include 'Rome and Carthage,' 'England and France,' or 'North and South' (for the American Civil War). Building a strong base of historical knowledge can greatly assist in solving these types of clues.