Self defence.
Sparta and Athens united during the Persian Wars primarily out of a shared threat posed by the Persian Empire, which sought to expand its control over the Greek city-states. Despite their significant differences in governance and military strategy—Sparta being a militaristic oligarchy and Athens a democratic city-state—their common interest in preserving Greek independence compelled them to form alliances, such as the Hellenic League. This collaboration was crucial in key battles like those at Marathon and Salamis, where their combined forces successfully repelled the Persian invasion.
They united 180 Greek city-states into several alliances, the first led by Sparta, the next led by Athens.
To face a more powerful common enemy
Pony express
Exercising his power of king through his generals.
It was in their interests to join with the other Greek city-states in a coalition to defend their mutual interests and cities.
Sparta and Athens allied during the Peloponnesian War primarily in response to the threat posed by the Persian Empire. The common enemy prompted the formation of the Hellenic League, where the two city-states put aside their rivalry to unite against Persian invasions. Despite their differences in governance and culture, the need for mutual defense fostered a temporary alliance. This collaboration was a strategic necessity to preserve their independence and territorial integrity.
Persian
Threat of annihilation by the Persian invasion
The war against Persia. It united all of Greece, including Athens and Sparta.
He built the Royal Roads
Against the Persian invasion.