Population flight: A forgotten aspect of Greek warfare in the sixth and fifth centuries B. C.

Abstract

In this article, the author formulates a hypothesis about the fundamental importance of population flights during periods of war during the fifth and sixth centuries B. C., based on a critical evaluation of the reasons for the quick rebirth of Greek cities during the period whose populations had been sold into slavery, exiled, or killed. According to this hypothesis, population flights were one of the most essential elements of Greek warfare. When a threatened city was at a disadvantage, evacuations of property, women, children, and older men were carried out before the attack of enemy troops, leaving behind only those who were absolutely essential to an effective defence of the city. This was done to protect the most vulnerable part of the population, as well as to improve the chances for military success by reducing the supply difficulties posed by a long siege. When the city was large, wealthy, and well prepared for its defence, village dwellers also took refuge within its walls. On the other hand, when it was believed that the siege would end in defeat, the entire population was evacuated, and would remain outside its home city until the threat disappeared (e.g. the Persian repression after the Ionian revolt, Datis’ expedition); property, women, children, and old men would all be removed to a safe place, whilst men capable of bearing arms would attempt to defy the enemy in the most favourable circumstances possible (e.g. the Persian wars). The most extreme solution was to abandon the city and to establish new settlements far away from the territory under threat.