Sparta Sparta Living in Sparta Life was harsh

Sparta

Sparta Living in Sparta • • • Life was harsh and cruel One basic rule of law: Put Sparta’s needs above your own Sparta had a huge, powerful army Spartan citizens, called aristocrats, only trained for war Aristocrats ruled the government, and citizens over 60 ran it Helots farmed the land Perioeci, the merchants and artisans who lived in Sparta, were looked down on by the aristocrats, and were not citizens Helots and Perioeci greatly outnumbered Spartan citizens Kept them from revolting through terror

Sparta

Sparta Growing Up in Sparta • • • • If a baby was born and it looked unhealthy, it was left to die. Boys began military training at 7 Boys were encouraged to cheat and steal, but were punished if caught They were given no shoes, one cloak and very little food At 20, boys became soldiers, and were expected to marry At 30, they could join the Assembly At 60, they could retire from the army and join the Council of elders who ran the Spartan government Women ran farms and estates like in other city states Women and girls had more freedom and opportunities than any other girls in Greece. They were allowed to go out, watch sporting events, and talk to men Women and girls exercised and trained to have strong bodies to have healthy babies Spartans only interest was to be strong, brave and powerful in battle. Spartan women told their men, “Come home with your shield, or come home on it. ” Spartans did not travel outside Spartans did not like change