Question

Why did the Persian Emperor Darius invade Greece?

a) "To expand his empire and control trade routes"
b) "To establish a cultural exchange with Greece"
c) "To learn about Greek philosophy and literature"
d) "To seek refuge from political turmoil"

Answer 1

Emperor Darius invaded Greece primarily to seek retribution against Athens for assisting the Ionian cities in their rebellion against Persian rule, prompting the beginning of the Persian Wars.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reason Emperor Darius invaded Greece was to expand his empire and control the crucial trade routes. The involvement of Athens in supporting the Ionian Greek cities during their rebellion against Persian rule in 499 BCE led Darius to seek retribution against Greece. This culminated in a plan for a full-scale invasion. Although his larger ambition may have included further territorial expansion, it was primarily Athens' aid to the Ionian cities that angered the Persian ruler and triggered his military action, which is known as the beginning of the Persian Wars.