The Aegean League was a confederation of city-states in the Aegean Sea during the classical period of ancient Greece. Formed primarily for mutual defense and economic cooperation, it included several islands and coastal cities that sought to protect their interests against external threats, particularly from the Persian Empire. The league was characterized by a system of alliances and shared resources, allowing member states to collaborate on military and trade matters. It played a significant role in the region's politics and contributed to the cultural exchange among its members, fostering a sense of unity and shared identity among the diverse city-states.