The document summarizes the Persian Wars between Greece and Persia in the 5th century BC. It describes how Persia conquered Greek colonies in Asia Minor and crushed a revolt in 499 BC, leading Athens to send troops in support. This started the wars. Key battles included Marathon, where Athens defeated the Persians despite being outnumbered; Thermopylae, where 300 Spartans held the pass against the Persians for two days; Salamis, where the Athenians trapped the Persian navy; and Plataea, which ended with the final Persian retreat. The Greeks were ultimately successful due to their military skill, fighting as defenders on their home territory, and using surprise tactics.