Final answer:
The question pertains to the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta, which took place from 431-404 BCE. The conflict was a culmination of rivalry and fear, with each city-state leading their respective leagues in a drawn-out war that concluded with the surrender of Athens and the erosion of its empire.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Peloponnesian War and the Athenian and Spartan Rivalry
The question refers to the historical context of Athens and Sparta, two leading city-states of ancient Greece, consulting with their allies. The Peloponnesian War, a seminal event in Greek history that lasted from 431-404 BCE, pitted the Delian League, led by Athens, against the Peloponnesian League, led by Sparta. The conflict was sparked by inter-city rivalries, Athens's expansion of power, and fear and resentment from Sparta. As members of their respective leagues, these city-states leveraged their influence over allies for military support, exemplified in various military campaigns and battles throughout the war.
The war began when Athens aided the city-state of Corcyra against Corinth, a member of the Peloponnesian League, which resulted in Sparta invading Attica to counteract Athenian aggression. Significant events included the Athenian disaster in Syracuse, the Spartan invasion of Attica bolstered by funds and naval support from Persia, and ultimately Sparta's victory with the siege and surrender of Athens in 404 BCE. The Peloponnesian War led to the downfall of the Athenian empire and reshaped the ancient Greek world.
The conflicts between Athens and Sparta were encapsulated by key battles and strategic maneuvers, including the Athenian expedition against Syracuse that ended in disaster, the pivotal Battle of Aegospotami where Sparta's fleet destroyed the Athenian navy, and the fortitude of Athens and its allies depicted in Figure 6.5.1.