Final answer:
The Hellenistic Period in Greek History (323-30 BCE) was characterized by the spread of Greek culture following Alexander the Great's conquests and the merging of Greek and local cultures. It ended with the ascendance of Roman power. Additionally, the Archaic and Classical periods predated the Hellenistic age, with critical developments in Greek politics, culture, and arts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Hellenistic Period in Greek History
The Hellenistic Period represents a significant era in ancient Greek history, beginning after the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BCE and lasting until the Roman victory at the Battle of Actium in 30 BCE. This period is marked by the far-reaching spread of Greek culture across the Mediterranean and Near East as a result of Alexander's conquests. Greek cities were known as poleis (singular: polis), and during the Hellenistic age, they experienced a blend of Greek and local cultures, leading to a distinctive Hellenistic civilization. An example of artistic achievement from this time is the Great Altar of Zeus from Pergamon, which captures dramatic expressions and complex movement, reflecting the new artistic sensibilities of the era. The conclusion of this period marked the beginning of Greek culture being subsumed under Roman hegemony.
During the Archaeic period, cities like Athens saw the creation of democracy, with significant developments in culture and politics. The end of the Classical period was marked by the conquest of Greece by the Macedonian king, Philip II, and the subsequent empire establishment by his son, Alexander the Great. The Classical Age's greatest contributions included advances in philosophy, art, and intellectual achievements, with figures such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle leading these realms.