The Delian League

The Delian League was a coalition formed by Greek city-states around 478 BC to defend against Persia after the Persian Wars. Led initially by Athens, its members contributed ships and money to a common defense fund. Over time, Athens used the league’s resources to build its empire, often compelling other members to continue contributing. Although founded as a mutual alliance for safety, it gradually transformed into Athenian dominance, with the league serving Athenian interests and strengthening Athens’ naval power and influence in the Greek world.