The First War for Western Civilization

Season 1

The Greco-Persian War was pivotal in the creation of the modern world - yet all that is generally remembered are the 300 Spartans at Thermopylae. This documentary examines the whole history, from the Ionian Revolt (497BC) to the Peace of Callias (449BC), and also covers the legacies of the war - including Democracy.

Where to Watch The First War for Western Civilization • Season 1

8 Episodes

The Beginning
E1
The BeginningA look at Athens and the First Democracy at the start of the Greco-Persian war.
Treachery
E2
TreacherySparta and Greece; the origins of the war; the Persian invasion of Greece at Marathon and the battle
The Battle of Marathon
E3
The Battle of MarathonThe famous battle is examined.
Rise and Fall
E4
Rise and FallMyths of the Battle of Marathon are examined.
The Great Invasion of Xerxes
E5
The Great Invasion of XerxesLeonidas and his 300 Spartans vs. Xerxes and his 250,000 Persians- the battle is joined at Thermopylae.
Leonidas and the 300 Spartans
E6
Leonidas and the 300 SpartansThe facts of the famous battle of Thermopylae.
Decision in Greece
E7
Decision in GreeceThe war continues and is concluded in the Peace of Callias, aka the Peace of Kimon.
Aftermath and Legacy
E8
Aftermath and LegacyWhat the Greco-Persian War means for the modern world.