Question

During the rule of Spartans, it is mentioned that they had hoplites, however, hoplites differed from other types of slaves as we see throughout the history becasue they were given their own homes and lands. Also they were only obligated to provide for Spartans' for live stock, but how did the Spartans obtained those they have needed from hoplites? Did the Spatans use any medium of exchange or they got whatever they can with no questions asked?

Answer 1

hoplites (οπλιτης) is a soldier. Hoplites could be a citizen of a Greek city but not a slave. But, the difference between Sparta and other cities (polis - πολης) in the Greek territory (not country yet) is that Sparta is using for their economy the system of serfdom while the other cities pure slavery. In Sparta these people were called ilotes (ειλωτες). Their social and economical status was something between free men and slaves. Therefore Spartans ocassionally used ilotes for some wars. Spartans owened the land and the stock and through the serfdom system they were getting their products and riches !!!

Answer 2

from what i have been taught at greek school is that ilotes where people who were transformed to slaves after their city lost a war or something !! tey were something like spoil!

Answer 3

hoplites also means the man who shoots!!