The Battle of Marathon (490 BC, Greece)
The Battle of Marathon (490 BC, Greece) — an illustrated history story, featuring Miltiades, Callimachus, Darius I, set in Greece. 10 illustrated pages, free to read on Wonder History.
Page 1
On September 12, 490 BC, on the plains of Marathon, Miltiades, the Athenian general, Callimachus, the polemarch, Darius I, the Persian king, and Pheidippides, the Athenian messenger, were about to engage in a battle that would decide the fate of Greece. The Persian army, numbering over 25,000, faced a significantly smaller Athenian force, roughly 10,000 strong. The iconic moment was the clash of shields and spears under the scorching sun. But where did this epic showdown begin?
Page 2
The seeds of conflict were sown years before, when Darius I sought to expand the Persian Empire westward. "Athens has become a thorn in my side!" Darius I roared, addressing his advisors in the palace at Susa. "Their support of the Ionian revolt cannot go unpunished."
Page 3
"But Sire," one advisor interjected, "Athens is far and their warriors fierce! We must consider the logistics.". Darius scoffed. "Logistics are for merchants, not kings! Prepare the fleet. We will teach these Athenians the cost of defiance!"
Page 4
News of the impending invasion reached Athens, throwing the city into turmoil. "The Persians are coming!" messengers cried through the streets. Miltiades, a seasoned Athenian general, addressed the citizens. "We must stand together or face enslavement! Prepare for battle!"
Page 5
Pheidippides, a renowned Athenian runner, was dispatched to Sparta to seek aid. He ran for two days straight, arriving exhausted but determined. "Sparta!" he gasped, before the Spartan leaders. "Athens needs your help against the Persian invasion!"
Page 6
The Spartans, however, were in the midst of a religious festival and could not immediately join the fight. "We honor Apollo," the Spartan king declared. "We cannot march until the festival is complete."
Page 7
Miltiades, understanding the urgency, decided to face the Persians at Marathon without Spartan assistance. Callimachus, the polemarch, stepped forward, saying, "General, let us show them the strength of Athenian resolve! We will meet them on the field of battle!"
Page 8
The battle began with a fierce charge by the Athenians. They ran towards the Persian lines. The clash of bronze against wicker was deafening. The Persians, surprised by the ferocity of the Athenian attack, began to falter. "Press forward! For Athens!" Callimachus cried, his spear dripping with blood.
Page 9
Miltiades, observing the battle, saw an opportunity to exploit a weakness in the Persian formation. He ordered his troops to concentrate their attack on the Persian center. "As Sun Tzu said," Miltiades shouted, "'In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity!' We must seize it now!"
Page 10
The Athenians routed the Persian army, securing a decisive victory. Pheidippides was sent to Athens to deliver the news. He ran the entire distance, proclaiming, "Nike!" before collapsing and dying. The victory at Marathon saved Athens and preserved Greek independence, shaping Western civilization for centuries to come. The victory at Marathon ensured that democracy would continue to flourish.
About this story
- Historical figures: Miltiades, Callimachus, Darius I
- Location: Greece
- Period: Ancient
- Audience: general readers
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