The Spartan Wars refer to a series of military conflicts involving the ancient Greek city-state of Sparta. These wars were primarily fought against rival city-states, such as Athens and Thebes, during the classical period. The most notable conflict was the Peloponnesian War, which lasted from 431 to 404 BCE, where Sparta emerged victorious against Athens, marking a significant shift in power in ancient Greece. Sparta was known for its unique social structure and military-oriented culture, emphasizing discipline and training. The Spartan army was highly regarded for its effectiveness, particularly the elite Spartan hoplites, who were heavily armed infantry soldiers. The outcomes of these wars greatly influenced the political landscape of Greece and the development of military strategies in the ancient world.