Delian League

The Delian League was an alliance of Greek city-states formed in 478 BCE after the Persian Wars. Led by Athens, its main goal was to defend against potential Persian expansion. Member states contributed funds or ships to a common treasury located on the island of Delos. Over time, Athens transformed the League into an empire, exerting control over its allies, which led to tensions and conflicts, notably the Peloponnesian War against Sparta. The League played a crucial role in shaping ancient Greek politics and military alliances, highlighting themes of cooperation and power dynamics in history.