Final answer:
Greece was located to the northwest of the massive Persian Empire, separated by the Aegean Sea. The Greeks, through their city-states, managed to fend off Persian attempts at conquest during the Persian Wars, despite the empire's vast size and resources. These events precipitated the Classical Age in Greece and showcased the influence of Greek political systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Greece was situated on the edge of the expansive Persian Empire around 500 BCE. The Greek world, consisting of city-states, lay to the northwest of the Persians, across the Aegean Sea. The Persian Empire's reach during its zenith extended from the borders of India to the western regions such as Asia Minor, Egypt, and Macedonia, essentially encompassing all major civilizations of the Middle East.
The Persian Wars (492-449 BCE) were a direct result of the Greek city-states facing off against Persian expansionism. Greek cities in Ionia, which lay in close proximity to mainland Greece within Asia Minor, rebelled against Persian rule, with crucial support coming from Athens. This intervention prompted a broader conflict between Greece and Persia. Despite being heavily outnumbered and less resourceful, the Greek city-states secured several significant victories that deterred Persia's plans to conquer Greece.
The conflict highlighted the stark contrast in political systems, with the Persian monarchy being seen as a form of tyrannical rule, while the Greeks prided themselves on their political institutions and participation in decision-making processes. These wars also marked the beginnings of what would become known as the Classical Age in Greece, leading to significant cultural and intellectual achievements.