or Spartan Alliance
Military coalition of Greek city-states led by Sparta , formed in the 6th century BC.
League decisions about war, peace, or alliance were determined by congresses summoned by the Spartans. The league was a major force in Greek affairs, forming the core of resistance to the Persian invasions in 490 and 480 and fighting Athens in the Peloponnesian War . Its power declined after its defeat at Leuctra in 371, and the league disbanded in 366/365.