Fans of the movie '300' know just how awesome the Spartans are, taking on an entire nation's army that outnumber them enormously and putting up an incredibly good fight. Though they often suffered massive losses and were weakened by military defeats, the great conquerors of the world steered clear of legendary Sparta.
For two centuries after Sparta suffered at Leuctra in 371 B.C. and the following revolts, it managed to hold onto regional power. In fact, nobody even tried to challenge their power—even the infamous conqueror, Alexander the Great.
Sparta never stopped claiming to be the "defender of Hellenism" and managed to stay witty in the face of decline. Another great European conqueror, Philip II, threatened Sparta saying, "If I enter Laconia, I will raze Sparta." The Spartans only needed a single word as a reply: "If."
Through mythic-like stories and great feats of bravery and strength, Sparta has cemented itself as being one of the most feared nations in history. Even in the face of defeat, Sparta still brought doubt and fear to their enemy's hearts.
