What was the defining characteristic of the Spartan city-state?

Answer 1

"The" defining characteristic or "a" defining characteristic? The Spartans practiced selective infanticide. The Spartan had a system of poltical authority that had two kings. The Spartans were dependent on a slave system. The Spartans were deeply and intensely territorial. Homosexuality was not only accepted, but encouraged in the Spartan military. These are some characteristics. But I am not sure if any one of them is "the" characterstic you are looking for.

Answer 2

They were a very warlike, win-at-all-costs group. The Spartans even refused to take part in the Olympics, because it would have been too humiliating if they had lost. Mothers were said to tell their sons who went off to war, "Come back with your shield or on it."