This story, despite its popularity in western civilization, is inaccurate. According to legend, the runner Pheidippides ran from Marathon to Athens to warn to Athenians about the Persian armada that was on its way. At this point in time the Persians chose to withdraw. The Persians then attempted to use their ships to move against Athens, but by the time they reached the city, the defenders at Marathon had already returned and reinforced the city. During the battle the Greeks gained the upper hand were able to force the Persians to retreat to their boats. In 490 BCE the Persians landed at Marathon where they squared off against the Athenians and the Athenian allies. Home » History » Civilization History » Persia Persian History
