The city state of Sparta was unique in history for its fearsome battle tactics and its austere way of life. It was a brutal, violent society that had only one purpose and that was to produce the finest, most feared army in the world. Military service was compulsory for all male citizens. The entire government and every member of its population worked as soldiers or to support their army. Winning fame and eternal glory, Sparta still inspires and fascinates. From the pages of ancient epics such as the Iliad and The Odyssey to the big screen in a modern theater, Sparta lives on. Its soldiers remain the epitome of the disciplined warrior and its heroic sacrifices are still revered and honored. Sparta as a legend has long since survived after the buildings of its city have crumbled to dust. In this book, you will discover the truth that became the mythology. You will find out why the Spartans were more brave and more ferocious in real life than in any novel. You will learn about the women in a society dominated by men and why they were vital to Sparta. You will discover what life was really like for a boy entering military service at 7 or a slave that belonged to the state. You will learn how Sparta built an army that captured the respect of every nation in the Ancient world.