The period between the reforms attributed to Lycurgus and the Persian War was marked by a defining event in Spartan history: the Messenian Wars (c. 750-650 BC).
Fertile Messenia: Messenia, a neighboring district in the Peloponnese, was the most agriculturally productive of all Dorian territories, just like Sparta's Laconia. The Dorians had conquered both regions during their major invasion.
A Lengthy Struggle: The Messenians, aided by other Peloponnesian states wary of Sparta's growing power, fiercely resisted Spartan domination. This resulted in a long and arduous conflict known as the First and Second Messenian Wars.
The Oracle's Intervention: According to legend, during the Second Messenian War, a desperate Sparta sought guidance from the oracle at Delphi. The oracle's cryptic advice was to request a military leader from Athens.
An Unlikely Ally: Athenian leaders, hesitant to directly assist Sparta but unwilling to defy the oracle, sent Tyrtaeus, a poet and schoolmaster, hoping he would be of minimal help.
The Power of Poetry: Regardless of the truth behind his appointment, Tyrtaeus, the Athenian poet, is credited with reviving Spartan morale through his stirring war poetry. His contributions may have even been decisive in securing Sparta's ultimate victory.
The Fate of the Conquered: The defeated Messenians were forced into serfdom, enduring harsh conditions similar to those faced by the Helots, Sparta's existing subjugated population. Many Messenians chose exile, venturing westward across the seas to establish new homes. Some founded the Italian city of Rhegium, while others migrated to Sicily and founded the city that continues to bear their name, Messene.
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