Leuctra 371 BC

This detailed study explores the battle of Leuctra and the tactics that ultimately led to the complete defeat of Sparta, freeing Greece from domination by Sparta in a single afternoon.

The battle of Leuctra, fought in early July 371 BC, was one of the most important battles ever in the ancient world. Not only did it see the destruction of Spartan dominance over Greece, but it also introduced several tactical innovations which remain studied and emulated to this day. Sparta’s hegemony over Greece, which had been in effect since the Persian wars of 480/79 and especially since the Peloponnesian War in 431-404 BC, was eradicated in a single day of destruction. Sparta would never recover from the manpower losses it suffered at Leuctra.

The importance of the battle of Leuctra cannot be underestimated. This superbly illustrated title gives the reader a detailed understanding of this epic clash of forces, what led to it, its commanders, sources, and the consequences it had for future civilisations.