The Tebans were the inhabitants of the ancient city of Thebes, located in Boeotia, Greece. Known for their military prowess, they played a significant role in various Greek conflicts, particularly during the Peloponnesian War. Thebes was a powerful city-state that often rivaled Athens and Sparta. One of the most notable events involving the Tebans was the formation of the Sacred Band, an elite military unit composed of male lovers. This unit gained fame for its bravery and effectiveness in battle, especially during the Battle of Leuctra in 371 BCE, where they defeated the Spartans, marking a shift in power in ancient Greece.