Athens' Evolving Strategy in the Peloponnesian War: From Defense to Offense and Back

Initial Phase (431–425 BCE): Pericles' Defensive Realism

Avoid land battles with Sparta; rely on naval superiority and the Long Walls for protection. Raid Peloponnesian coasts and secure alliances.

Middle Phase (425–415 BCE): Shift to Offense

Growing confidence leads to aggressive operations, culminating in the ill-fated Sicilian Expedition (415 BCE).

Final Stage (414–404 BCE): Return to Defense

After the Sicilian disaster, Athens reverts to defending its empire, protecting supply lines, and using its navy to intercept Spartan shipping.

Ultimately, Athens surrendered to Sparta in 404 BCE.