Athenian League

The Athenian League, also known as the Delian League, was an alliance of Greek city-states led by Athens after the Persian Wars in the 5th century BCE. Formed to provide collective security and support against potential Persian threats, the league originally aimed to maintain naval power and share resources. Over time, Athens exerted significant control over its allies, using league funds for its own initiatives, particularly the construction of the Parthenon. This shift caused tensions and eventual conflicts, contributing to the outbreak of the Peloponnesian War against rival Sparta and its allies.