The fifth century BCE, in Athens, was a time of great prosperity and culture. Democracy became the new government. In 449 BCE, after years of war, the unsuccessful Persians made peace, and in 445 BCE the hostilities with Sparta (Athens' long time rival) subsided. The conclusion of warfare left Athens with unnecessary money from the Delian league. Pericles, General of Athens, used this money to complete the rebuilding and beautification of Athens; with Phidias as artistic supervisor. …showed first 75 words of 1698 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1698 total…and confident high above the city of Athens, the Parthenon sits depicting Athens' glorious military where-with-all, divine history, and superior civilization. Pericles justified the great expenses of the Parthenon by foreseeing the Parthenon would serve as a continuous reminder of the power of fifth century Athens. Indeed, Pericles was right, the long lasting effects of the Parthenon will remain forever, and it will always stand as propaganda to the strength, superiority and power of Athens.