Greek hoplites were heavily armed foot soldiers from ancient Greece, primarily active during the 7th to 4th centuries BCE. They typically fought in a phalanx formation, which was a tight, rectangular mass of soldiers that provided strength and protection. Hoplites were equipped with a large round shield called a hoplon, a spear, and a short sword. Their armor often included a bronze helmet, breastplate, and greaves to protect their legs. The term "hoplite" comes from the word for their shield, and these soldiers were usually citizens of city-states like Athens and Sparta. Hoplites played a crucial role in battles such as the Battle of Marathon and the Battle of Thermopylae, where their discipline and training were key to their effectiveness on the battlefield.