Sparta

pre-Fascist Society

Sparta is the first known example of proto-fascism in history. Plato wrote extensively about the Spartans, and although they were traditional enemies, he admired them greatly. The Spartan culture strongly influenced his ideas on fascism, eugenics, culture, and social philosophy as outlined in "The Republic".

The city-state

Sparta was a city-state located in the southeastern Peloponnese region of ancient Greece. Sparta grew to rival the size of the city-states Athens and Thebes by subjugating its neighboring region of Messenia. Though Sparta absorbed this population, it did not integrate the conquered people into society.

Proto-fascist Society

Spartan society was separated into social classes, and conquered people were not given political rights or citizenship, though it could be earned through service. Even lower than the conquered population was a group called the helots. Helots were responsible for agricultural duties and other day-to-day tasks that supported the Spartans. Spartan citizens required this support because they focused on athletic and military training, and politics. Two kings from two different families ruled Sparta. This ensured that when one king ventured out on a military campaign the other could continue to rule the city. A council of elders advised the kings in addition to serving as judges and hosting public assemblies.

Military activity was essential to Sparta. At the age of seven, boys left home to begin training at a military academy called an agoge (a-go-je). At the academy, the boys lived communally with others in their age group. This was meant to prepare them for life in the army. Soldiers were trained as hoplites, or heavily armed foot soldiers. The Spartan army was known for its skill in on-land combat.