Although Americans offer the world a radically egalitarian popular culture and, more recently, in a very Athenian mood, have sought to remove oligarchs and impose democracy - ... - enemies, allies, and neutrals alike are not so impressed.

They understandably fear American power and intentions while our successive governments, in the manner of confident and proud Athenians, assure them of our morality and selflessness.

Military power and idealism about bringing perceived civilization to others are prescription for frequent conflict in any age - and no ancient state made war more often than did fifth-century Athens.

These tiny mounts, mostly stallions, were only partialled protected with light cloth padding over the face, thighs and chest, and harder to ride than geldings.

If death by trampling seems unlikely given the small weight and height of the ponies, it is important to remember that infantrymen themselves were about the same size as modern twelve year olds rather than contemporary adults, and fought as clumsy hoplites without javelins or bows.

Much of Athenian foreign policy, including its efforts to maintain an overseas empire in the Aegean, cultivate allies such as Argos and Corcyra, and establish dependencies at distant Amphipolis and Potidea, was predicated on just the need to create permanent bases to facilitate long-distance cruises.

Trireme harbours were not unlike the British Empire's network of coaling stations throughout Africa and the Pacific to serve its late-nineteenth century global fleet.