Ancient Greece 09 : "Decline and Downfall"

338 BCE, 146 BCE

The bullet-point version:

Constant bickering and conflict among city-states did not build community.

Ongoing wars with each other led to constantly shifting alliances.

The poorer classes began to rebel against the wealthy aristocracy.

Colonies around Greece had absorbed Greek ideas, but weren’t necessarily loyal.

The city-states were composed of radically-different different cultures and governments (e.g. Sparta and Athens). You’ve heard the phrase culture clash? Think of this as one of the ultimate clash of the titan-type culture clashes, particularly between Athens and Sparta.

They became so good at relaxing and enjoying the good life that as societies, they became complacent and were not sufficiently-prepared to battle back external enemies.

Finally, the increasing power of the surrounding countries led to Rome’s dominance and eventual subjugation.

So sad, too bad, thanks for all the great ideas. Next up: Rome.