audiobook Two Gandhari Manuscripts of the "Songs of Lake Anavatapta" (Anavatapta-gatha): British Library Kharosthi Fragment 1 and Senior Scroll 14 (Gandharan Buddhist Texts) (Volume 5) by Richard Salomon in History

Description

A fresh appreciation of the pivotal role of Spartan strategy and tactics in the defeat of the mightiest empire of the ancient world More than 2500 years ago a confederation of small Greek city-states defeated the invading armies of Persia; the most powerful empire in the world. In this meticulously researched study; historian Paul Rahe argues that Sparta was responsible for the initial establishment of the Hellenic defensive coalition and was; in fact; the most essential player in its ultimate victory. Drawing from an impressive range of ancient sources; including Herodotus and Plutarch; the author veers from the traditional Atheno-centric view of the Greco-Persian Wars to examine from a Spartan perspective the grand strategy that halted the Persian juggernaut. Rahe provides a fascinating; detailed picture of life in Sparta circa 480 B.C.; revealing how the Spartans’ form of government and the regimen to which they subjected themselves instilled within them the pride; confidence; discipline; and discernment necessary to forge an alliance that would stand firm against a great empire; driven by religious fervor; that held sway over two-fifths of the human race.