History: Delian League

478 BCE -- A confederation of Greek city-states designed to resist Persian imperialism. The Delian League cemented the political power of the Athenians, while at the same time the Spartans shied away from international politics. The headquarters of the Delian League was on the Island of Delos, central to the Ionian Greeks, however the Athenians occupied positions of political importance including the treasurers and commanders of the fleet. The Delian League freed Greek city-states under Persian control and successfully defeated the Persian army and navy.