the directions of Athenian foreign policy

Identify The Main Directions of Athenian Foreign Policy during 479-440 BC
Word Count: 207

Between 479-440 BC, Athenian foreign policy was centred around the following areas:
· Athenian organisation of Greek states under Athenian leadership. Athens was to “Snatch the hegemony” from Sparta and form the Delian league with Athens as the Leader.
· Expansion and preservation of the Delian League, through aggressive military campaigns against foreign states. Policy of conquering states and repressing rebellion of Athenian allies.
· Athenian aggression towards Persia under Kimon – Propaganda informing allies that this ensured “security from Persia” .
· Athenian independence from Sparta. Athens abandoned alliance with Sparta and formed alliances with enemies of Sparta: Argos and Thessaly.
· Further aggression towards Persia – War in Egypt reflecting “Kimonian” policy towards Persia. Athens attempting to assist with rebellion against Persi...