They held on until the end to allow their allied city contingents time to escape to the walls of friendly cities before the Persian cavalry broke through to ride then down in the open country of their escape route. The Thespian contingent also stayed to help, and they died as well.
Leonidas commanded the Spartan contingent of 300 heavy infantry and 2,100 light infantry at Thermopylae plus another 7,000 from other city-states.
After defeating the doomed Spartan/Greek rear guard led by the Spartan king Leonidas at the narrow pass of Thermopylae the Persians went on to raid the Greek countryside and burned the Greek City-State of Athens . Afterwards , the Persians returned home .
King Leonidas. He led the battle of Thermopylae with 300 Spartans. His people killed 20000 Persians.
Yes, the 300 Spartan hoplites with their 2,000 light infantry continued to hold the pass to let their 4,000 Greek allies escape and died to preserve them.
Leonidas, the king of Sparta, is often regarded as a symbol of bravery and sacrifice. He demonstrated strong, charismatic leadership, inspiring his troops to stand firm against overwhelming odds during the Battle of Thermopylae. His commitment to Spartan ideals and his willingness to fight alongside his men showcased his dedication, earning him a legendary status in history. Leonidas exemplified the traits of a warrior king, prioritizing honor and loyalty above all else.
It is estimated that there were three-hundred Spartan Hoplites who died in the defense of the pass at Thermopylae .
The Battle of Thermopylae.
Leonidas .
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Leonidas
Leonidas.
It was a delaying position holding the pass. When they were withdrawn, the Spartan and Thespian contingents remained behind to let the others get away. It was a noble sacrifice.
Xerxes the first
Leonidas, one of the two Spartan kings.
Their steadfastness in battle was complemented by their self-sacrifice at the end by remaining to hold the pass to allow their allies to escape destruction too.
Leonidas commanded the Spartan contingent of 300 heavy infantry and 2,100 light infantry at Thermopylae plus another 7,000 from other city-states.
The Spartan warriors played a crucial role in the Battle of Thermopylae by bravely defending the narrow pass against the Persian army, delaying their advance and allowing other Greek forces to prepare for battle. Their sacrifice and determination became a symbol of courage and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.