The Greco-Persian Wars - PART V: The Sack of Athens and the Battle of Salamis

In 480 BC, following the fall of Thermopylae, the Greek fleet withdrew from Artemisium and regrouped at Salamis. At the same time, Xerxes advanced through Boeotia virtually unopposed, while Athens prepared for evacuation under the so-called Decree of Themistocles. Ancient sources speak of a Persian attempt to plunder Delphi, but modern scholarship generally regards this as later propaganda intended to protect the sanctuary’s reputation.At Salamis, the Greek alliance faced difficult choices. Many Peloponnesian commanders favored retreat to the Isthmus, but Themistocles argued successfully for battle in the straits. His strategy, coupled with a ruse that compelled Xerxes to commit his fleet, brought the Persians into waters where their numbers offered little advantage. Among the notable figures at Salamis was Artemisia of Halicarnassus, whose role Herodotus highlights with particular interest.The Battle of Salamis was a turning point in the Greco-Persian Wars. Though the conflict was far from over, the outcome would decide the course of the war going forward.*Contents:*00:00 After Thermopylae and Artemisium00:45 Persians Passing through Delphi03:55 The Themistocles Decree12:05 Preparing for the Persians14:09 Catalog of Ships18:45 Evacuating Athens21:51 The Sack of Athens27:14 Debating with Themistocles 37:20 The Persians Arrive at Salamis50:26 The Battle of Salamis01:07:40 Aftermath of Salamis01:09:58 Thank You and PatronsSupport the show