Marathon (Greek-Persian Wars, 490 BC). Commander: Miltiades. Opponent: King Darius. Location: Marathon. At Stake: Greek decisive battle over the Persians. After providing defensive aid to neighboring Ionia, the Athenians must defend Athens against Persian invasion. But Persia, with its archers and Calvary, have the clear advantage. After an 8-day stand off, with more Persian reinforcements on the way, the Athenians, led by Callimachus and Miltiades, decide they must take the offensive. When the Persian Calvary is led to water, the Athenians advance. Both forces being equal in number, the Athenians depend on speed to gain the advantage. They slaughter over 6,000 Persian men, proving for the first time that the Athenian army is a force to be reckoned with. Language: French

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