Definition of the glossary term Persian Wars
The Persian Wars refer to two separate invasions of some of the Greek city-states by the Persians. The first occurred in 490 B.C., and the second in 480 B.C. On both occassions the Greeks were able to defeat the invaders.
During the Persian Wars, Athens and Sparta actually allied briefly, in order to defeat them. In 480 B.C., under General Xerxes, the Persians invaded and sacked Athens, causing widespread destruction. The Persians were eventually defeated on water at the Battle of Salamis.
In the following year, the Spartans and the Athenains briefly fought together at Byzantium. The Spartans were forced to retreat, and the remaining allied Greek city-states formed the Delian League, and were able to further drive the Persians away.
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