#Sparta facts for kids full#

Spartan mothers told their sons before they left for battle, 'Come back with your shield, or on it.' Dead Spartans were carried home on their shields - only a coward would drop his shield and run away. A wife ran the family farm and gave orders to the enslaved people (known as 'helots'). Each polis had its own government, laws, rulers, and customs. Spartan women also had more freedom than other Greek women. Ancient Greece is a land of many city-states, called poleis. They weren't allowed to be soldiers, but they did compete against the boys at sport. Girls were expected to be physically fit too. to ensure the birth of healthy children, but the effect was to spare Spartan. They werenвЂ™t given much food either, so often had to steal. Sparta was a prominent city-state in ancient Greece, situated on the banks. A boy was only allowed one tunic and had to walk everywhere barefoot, even in cold weather. Only those who went through this gruelling training system were considered true Spartan citizens. Boys left their families at seven to begin their 23-year-long training to become a soldier. The Spartan men were well known for being brave and fierce, and they spent their whole lives training and fighting. The two most powerful city-states were Athens and Sparta.

#Sparta facts for kids full#

Sparta was the only city state which had a full time army. Improve your knowledge on Ancient Greece for kids and find out more about history with DK Find. Sparta was surrounded by mountains which protected it from invaders. The Spartans believed that strict discipline and a tough upbringing was the secret to making the best soldiers. facts about ancient egypt for kids Facts about Egypt today. Greeks said that in battle one Spartan was worth several other men. Fighting wars was what the Spartans did best.