The Burning of Athens
After Thermopylae, there was nothing to stop the Persians. Athens was evacuated - only a few old people who believed "wooden walls" meant the Acropolis stayed behind. The Persians burned Athens and killed the defenders on the Acropolis. But the Athenians were safe on their ships. Themistocles argued that the Greeks must fight at sea in the narrow straits of Salamis, where Persian numbers would be disadvantaged.
The Text
What You'll Learn
Comprehension
Notes that nothing stopped the Persians after Thermopylae
Cause & Consequence
Explains why some stayed: they believed wooden walls meant the Acropolis
Significance
Recognizes that Athens sacrificed its city to save its people
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