The First War for Western Civilization

A time when history became legend! Our modern connection to this period in history including Athens, Sparta and Persia. A closer look at Athens and the first Democracy in the world which spawned the Greco-Persian Wars 2,500 years ago.

The Spartans and their unique position in Greece. How Greece and Persia first came into conflict. Events leading up to the first Persian invasion of Greece at the Battle of Marathon, including the mystery of Marathon.

Athenian General Miltiades leads Athens against the Persian Empire's first invasion of Greece at Marathon. Exploring the mystery to why Athens did not wait for Spartan troops to arrive before attacking the Persians alone. Young and brash Kimon, son of Miltiades (the Hero at Marathon) begins his Hero's Journey, firstly, to avenge Athen's betrayal of his father's accomplishments and reputation.

Some myth busting about how the Greeks beat the Persians at Marathon. The origins of the famous Marathon run. War heroes, the fall from grace of Kimon's family and Athens builds their fleet under Themistocles.

Spartan King Leonidas and his 300 Spartans versus Xerxes, King of Persia, and his army of 250,000. Days 1 and 2 at the legendary Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC.

Legend versus History at Day 3 of Thermopylae. The sacrifice of Leonidas, his 300 Spartans and other Greeks, trying to delay the enormous Persian forces of King Xerxes. What really happened there? Were the 300 Spartans on a suicide mission? The evacuation of Athens and Themistocles brings on the first naval battle in the Bay of Salamis.

Stabilization of Greece and the lead up to the final Greco-Persian battle on Greek soil at Plataea. The rise of Kimon, the new unity of Greek Allies (Delian League), the Battle of Eurymedon under Kimon, the death of his wife Isodice, Kimon's next fall from grace, his return to power and his command of Athens to victory in Cyprus, 30 days after his death! The Peace of Callias/Kimon.

Was it all worthwhile? Kimon, Conqueror of Persia. The Golden Age legacy of Athens and Greece. The legacy of Sparta.

The "Making of" short feature with interviews of the cast and crew of the 8-Episode epic drama called "The First War For Western Civilization" and its abridged (72 minutes) version called "300 Spartans - The Real Story."

Trailer for the 8-episode epic drama, "The First War For Western Civilization."

"The First War for Western Civilization's" abridged version called "300 Spartans - The Real Story," which runs 72 minutes. Also hosted by Dr. Michael Scott.